Explore all emails from The Publish Press

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/5f45ac94-54e6-41a1-9a28-394d81d87a03/0427_Header.png?t=1777304763) Follow image link: (https://centraltalentbooking.com/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=publishpress_20260213) Caption: **Good morning. **We’re officially one month out from Press Publish LA: The Hollywood Creator Summit. If you’re a creator interested in attending, please submit your application ASAP as we have less than 50 spots open. We’re already sold out of industry tickets, but we have a limited number of Newsletter Bundles still available. Apply to PPLA (https://luma.com/ouyxukg0) — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: **Today’s lineup:** 1. One creator sets the record for biggest livestream fundraiser 2. Inside the making of a microdrama 3. What you missed from Coffee with Creators View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Creator Sets Record for World’s Biggest Livestream Fundraiser View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2931c153-b75a-4fe6-bfd3-bf372e72cb8a/0427_Article_Photo_1.png?t=1777304817) Caption: Łatwogang (bottom right) raises just over $60M for cancer patients / [Łatwogang](https://www.reddit.com/r/BeAmazed/comments/1swict6/polish_streamer_latwogang_has_raised_over_68/#lightbox) Yesterday, travel challenge creator Piotrek “[Łatwogang](https://www.youtube.com/@latwogang8538)” Garkowski closed out a nine-day stream that broke the record for a livestream fundraiser, racking up over 218M Polish zloty (about $60M USD) for a [cancer patient support foundation](https://www.siepomaga.pl/latwogang).  **That’s over 3X the previous single livestream record**—[$19 million](https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/613748-most-money-raised-by-live-stream-fundraiser) raised by French streamer ZeratoR last September. For reference, MrBeast’s biggest livestream fundraiser was [$12 million](https://www.instagram.com/p/DNY4RzBSb3Q/?img_index=1). **Breaking down a record-setter:** * Garkowski initially set the fundraising goal at 500K zloty, steadily increasing as the livestream caught [national attention](https://www.instagram.com/p/DXmjplEjJcV/?hl=en&img_index=1). He brought on dozens of Polish creators and [celebrities](https://www.instagram.com/p/DXcr5FKDe2Y/?hl=en) over the course of the stream. At one point, he had 1.4M concurrent viewers (100M+ views total). * In addition to thousands of individual donors (many of whom [shaved](https://www.instagram.com/p/DXnEsc8jKVZ/?hl=en&img_index=2) their [heads](https://www.instagram.com/p/DXnLt6wjFQ2/?hl=en) in support of cancer patients), top contributors included Polish [food](https://www.instagram.com/p/DXm4ctADAqr/) and [beverage](https://www.instagram.com/p/DXhJmYDCNUZ/) companies, banks, and [cosmetic brands](https://www.tiktok.com/@szybkieshoty2025/video/7633090337065454880?q=eveline%20cosmetics%20latwogang&t=1777244842194). **How creators are responding:** * Polish gaming creator [paszaBiceps](https://x.com/paszaBiceps/status/2048003327309308157?s=20) sold one of his Counter-Strike in-game weapons for more than $20K, donating the money to Garkowski’s stream. * “Love when people use their platform for good,” Jimmy “MrBeast” Donaldson commented [on X](https://x.com/MrBeast/status/2048431321093955612?s=20). * “Once in a lifetime we can witness an extraordinary moment that marks a change,” esports coach TAZ said [on X](https://x.com/g5taz/status/2048361027020976591?s=20). “That is what is happening in Poland right now.” **Zoom out: **Garkowski, who makes [travel](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DRm3YfljKEW/?hl=en) and [challenge](https://www.tiktok.com/@latwogang/video/7621935240633683232) content exclusively in Polish, has 5.4M followers across platforms. He was able to mobilize more than a quarter of his audience at one time and shatter the previous record with just 0.2% of MrBeast’s following.  View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Creators Move Into Microdramas View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/e3173daf-0280-4287-bcbd-d80f2112f25e/0427_Article_Photo_2.png?t=1777304836) Caption: Hannah Stocking attends the premiere for microdrama _Playback_ / [Hannah Stocking](https://www.instagram.com/p/DXU86-bEj4H/?img_index=20) _Playback_, a musical microdrama starring comedy creator [Hannah Stocking](https://www.instagram.com/p/DXU86-bEj4H/?img_index=1), launched last week on the [MyDrama app](https://apps.apple.com/cy/app/mydrama-short-drama-streaming/id6498713494)—featuring a cameo from our own Samir Chaudry.  We spoke with the show’s leads, Amber Laird and Royce Lundquist, about what makes the series stand out →  * The 100-minute-long series was shot in seven days, about 5x the pace of a traditional film set. It also included 17 original songs, a three-camera setup, and room for improv. * Director [Scott Brown](https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-m-brown/) (a former MrBeast creative producer) wrote the script and retained creative control through post-production—a rarity in a format where most directors are hired hands with no final cut. * It's [one of the first](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/why-openai-bought-a-tech-live-show) microdramas to work officially with SAG-AFTRA, a mark of legitimacy in a growing format where major studios are producing up to 30 microdramas per month. **Big picture:** The global microdrama industry is on track to surpass [$11 billion](https://omdia.tech.informa.com/pr/2026/feb/microdramas-overtake-streamers-on-mobile-engagement-says-omdia) in revenue this year but has largely consisted of formulaic, low-investment content. Now creator talent and real production value is coming in. For example, [Issa Rae](https://www.fastcompany.com/91524588/issa-rae-hoorae-tiktok-for-micro-dramas-what-to-expect) just announced her own microdrama series with TikTok, calling it a return to her digital roots.  Lundquist said that influx of quality production makes microdramas "a much better alternative to doom scrolling—things that connect people a bit more with their humanity." For creators willing to bring craft to a still-developing format, the lane is open. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: Sponsored by [CTB](https://centraltalentbooking.com/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=publishpress_20260213) # How Quenlin Blackwell Keeps Winning with Strategic Collabs View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/65b8954f-ffd8-4725-8d75-3e1e014f7eb8/72.webp?t=1777304647) Follow image link: (https://centraltalentbooking.com/bookings/feeding-starving-celebrities-5?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=publishpress_20260422) Caption: Comedy and chaos collide on [_Feeding Starving Celebrities_](https://centraltalentbooking.com/bookings/feeding-starving-celebrities-5?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=publishpress_20260422) with Quenlin Blackwell. Since launching in 2023, it has become one of the most-watched series on her YouTube channel. As the series continued to grow, Quen teamed up with **Central Talent Booking** to unlock even more high-impact guest opportunities. With 26+ years of industry expertise, CTB helps creators secure guests who drive conversation and engagement. Earlier this month, CTB helped book actress Halle Bailey. That episode has already surpassed 1.1 million views. Looking to land collaborations that energize your audience? [Partner with CTB today](https://centraltalentbooking.com/bookings/feeding-starving-celebrities-5?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=publishpress_20260422). View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # What We Learned at Coffee with Creators View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/57e102dd-314d-4478-af02-1960ed65b86d/0427_Article_Photo_3.png?t=1777304860) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Hannah (right) high-fives Jesser creative director Nathan Lam at Coffee with Creators, where Colin and Samir host a Creator Support Q&A (left) / Photography by Jesse Leon On Friday, we hosted over 60 LA-based creators at The Lighthouse for Coffee with Creators, a community event including a Creator Support Q&A with Colin and Samir.  **We were blown away by how many types of creators showed up,** from a 15-year-old business creator to a 50-year-old Hollywood editor trying to break into the creator editing scene. We had creators in [stunts](https://www.youtube.com/@OmarZaki), [comedy](https://www.instagram.com/cbeaumartino/?hl=en), [VFX](https://www.instagram.com/reallyzade/?hl=en), short-form, long-form, podcasts…if we tried to finish the list, we’d use our whole word count. So instead of doing that, here’s what we learned at the Q&A: **Consider your role in video formats.** If you appear on camera, getting clear on your purpose is key to standing out.  For example, if you host an interview show: “Ask yourself ‘Am I the expert? The most opinionated? The friend? Or a fan?’ Define your role to make sure you’re not just another voice,” Colin said. **Don’t size yourself.** When pitching to brands and business partners, don’t classify yourself a “smaller” or “mid-size” creator. Instead, define your niche audience. “‘Who is it for?’ and ‘Why do they watch?’ are the two most important questions if you're going to commercialize your creativity,” Samir said, placing himself in the shoes of a brand. “Because I am not buying a video, I'm buying access to your audience.” **Make projects because you want to, not because you feel like you need to. **“If you are doing something because you think you're supposed to be doing it, there's another person doing it because they love doing it. And that person's more fun to watch,” Samir said. _We’ll be hosting Coffee with Creators on a monthly basis, so be on the lookout for the next one._ View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 👀 Creator Jobs * **Comedy creator Andrew Schulz** is hiring a [personal assistant](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2293692-executive-personal-assistant-andrew-schulz) to manage meetings and communications. * **Business podcast Open Residency** is looking for a [sponsorship coordinator](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2293772-sponsorship-coordinator-open-residency) to communicate with brands and coordinate ad reads. * **Space journalist Kristin Fisher** is looking for a [thumbnail designer](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2295371-thumbnail-designer-and-packaging-strategist-endless-void-studios) for her YouTube channel. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Spotify](https://newsroom.spotify.com/2026-04-27/spotify-fitness-workouts-peloton/) is investing in fitness content, rolling out workout classes for Premium users featuring creators such as Chloe Ting and Pilates By Raven. * [IShowSpeed](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z8x1-LdqxW4) kicks off his Caribbean tour livestreaming under water. * [Instagram](https://techcrunch.com/2026/04/23/instagram-tests-a-new-instants-app-for-sharing-disappearing-photos/) launches a new app for disappearing photos. * [Gaming creator JSchlatt](https://x.com/schlatt/status/2048164093203300458?s=20) is hosting a live show in NYC in June. * [Beast Games](https://x.com/beastgames/status/2047743984735535506?s=46&t=NmWUNlnKIvC4arpjp1a_kQ) season 3 is looking for a global cast. * [Pokimane and Lilypichu](https://x.com/sweetnsour_pod/status/2048136346955596266?s=46) end their podcast, _Sweet n’ Sour_. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/the-highest-earning-livestream-fundraiser-of-all-time

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/22ca5930-df13-42dd-a031-3b6433b125a3/0424_Header_No_Sponsor.png?t=1777007286) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning. **Food creator Nara Smith opened pre-orders for her cookbook, _Homemade_. We heard that she made its pages from scratch, too. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: **Today’s lineup:** 1. The creator going all-in on AI ecommerce 2. What it takes to edit for a top streamer 3. Substack doubles newsletters generating revenue (and other big numbers from the week) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Breaking Down Nas Daily’s $27M Fundraise View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/b0ad5a1a-ad90-4bfd-ae33-d078c57f17c8/0424_Article_Photo_1.png?t=1777007614) Caption: NNuseir Yassin is building an AI ecommerce platform for solo entrepreneurs / [Nas.com](https://Nas.com) Education creator Nuseir Yassin, aka [Nas Daily](https://www.instagram.com/nasdaily/?hl=en), has spent 10 years [building](https://www.instagram.com/p/DW6l746jk93/?hl=en) a 70M-follower media brand through short-form video and global meet-ups. Now he's targeting solopreneurs with a $27M funding round for ecommerce platform [Nas.com](https://Nas.com). The pitch? "Shopify for the age of AI." **How it works →** Users upload product photos to the platform, which then generates a full storefront, ad creative, and live campaigns that post directly to Facebook and Instagram. It's a direct shot at Shopify and Etsy, but focused on marketing. "Shipping is a solved problem. Building a store is largely solved. Marketing is the last big unsolved problem in online commerce—and now the technology is finally good enough," Nas.com COO Alex Dwek told us. **Worth noting:** Nas.com’s [revenue grew](https://www.businessinsider.com/nas-daily-founder-ai-storefront-startup-funding-read-pitch-deck-2026-4) from $1M to $8M last year, with 20K paying entrepreneurs and 350K users. The domain cost $1.2M.  “It took three years to buy and it was a really big investment. It was also a signal we’re going all-in on this product,” Dwek said. Nas Daily and Nas.com are now the company’s top offerings. Other services, like Nas Academy (formerly its [creator education program](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/1-billion)), now provide education for Nas.com. **Big picture: **Yassin joins a wave of creator-founders—like [CatGPT](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/ai-creator-bets-big-on-landlines) and [Riley Brown](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/vibe-coding-explained)—using AI to build scalable businesses. Yassin leveraged Nas Daily to test the AI, running a 100-day AI video [experiment](https://www.instagram.com/p/DLAM13-ubI7/?hl=en) on his own channels (which generated 500M views) before productizing the tech on the platform. Dwek says the edge for creator founders is trust. "Nuseir started as a solopreneur. If you've done it yourself and you're building a product that would have made your life better—that's where the credibility comes,” Dwek said. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 3 Lessons from a Top Streaming Editor View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/91787b43-8b8a-4564-be2b-8138c4110568/0424_Article_Photo_2.png?t=1777007327) Caption: Cameron Diro (left) shares how he went from Ludwig’s (right) short-form editor to editing long-form series like Tip to Tip / [Cameron Diro](https://www.instagram.com/p/DXa6fXSiFbC/), [Ludwig Ahgren](https://www.instagram.com/p/DXa6fXSiFbC/) From editing in a van traveling through China to cutting shorts for a livestream with 40 streamers, LA-based video editor [Cameron Diro](https://x.com/CameronDiro) has helped [Ludwig](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrPseYLGpNygVi34QpGNqpA) (a streamer with over 10 million followers) pull off some of the internet’s biggest video series. Diro gave us insight on what it takes to edit for one of YouTube’s most-watched streamers →  **On getting hired:** Before working with Ludwig’s company Mogul Moves, Diro was a freelance editor in Texas. He said speed was important to getting a role on the team. “If you can be quick and you can get videos out, that's probably the biggest thing to get your name in the door,” Diro told us. * Diro works with seven other editors (three long-form on the main channel, three long-form on the second channel, and two short-form). He started as a short-form editor for Ludwig in 2023, transitioning to the long-form team for [Tip to Tip Japan](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QQTujE5qb_U&list=PLLGT0cEMIAzeq_YFR_iHm831-GuOWlwUJ) last year.  * Diro is currently working on a supercut of the series, dropping on Ludwig’s YouTube channel later this year. **On knowing when to ask for help: “**Asking for help doesn’t mean failing,” Diro said. “I can get pretty deep in the rabbit hole of a story and making it work how I want in my head, and that can work against me at times. My coworkers help me out of that and show me the path forward a lot of the time.” **On taking risks: **Diro said Ludwig isn’t afraid to take big swings on staff ideas, pointing to a [video about F4](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZTGSWSEXV_g&t=278s) as an example. “I wanted to learn a new program and try out a lot of things with music and effects, and I was given that opportunity to try and learn something to improve the video,” Diro said. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # By the Numbers: Streamer Spends Over $1M on Clipping View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/cd7f4d4f-9681-4028-a1b0-fbea55b0b354/0424_Article_Photo_3.png?t=1777007442) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: N3on (left) reveals how much he pays his clippers, Substack (middle) doubles revenue-generating newsletters, and SiriusXM Media inks an ad deal with YouTube (right) / [N3on](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OKzdou9yEgg), [Substack](https://substack.com/about?utm_source=user-menu), [SiriusXM](https://www.youtube.com/user/sirius/videos) It’s been a week for big numbers in the creator economy, and we’re not just talking about how many likes IShowSpeed got on [his X post](https://x.com/ishowspeedsui/status/2046756652699861128?s=20) dissing Logan Paul.  Here’s what you need to know, by the numbers: **$1.4M → **How much streamer **N3on** paid 300 clippers during a five-week period. [Kick’s](https://kick.com/n3on) partner program pays N3on up to $3K an hour according to _[Business Insider](https://www.businessinsider.com/how-top-kick-livestreamer-n3on-turns-controversy-into-clippable-fame-2026-4)_. That means it would take him 58 8-hour days of streaming at max earnings to earn that money back. **100K → **How many **Substack** newsletters are [generating revenue](https://www.nytimes.com/2026/04/22/business/dealbook/spacex-ai-cursor.html?smid=tw-dealbook&smtyp=cur) in 2026, up from 50K last year. If you spent five minutes reading every revenue-generating newsletter—and didn’t sleep—it would take you an entire year to get through all of them (at which point there might be even more to read). **255M →** How many monthly listeners **SiriusXM Media** is reaching by signing an exclusive [audio sales deal](https://variety.com/2026/digital/news/youtube-siriusxm-audio-advertising-us-exclusive-1236727709/) with **YouTube**. This accounts for almost [50% of podcast listeners](https://podcastatistics.com/) globally. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [MrBeast](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c937z1nxze8o) is sued by a former employee over alleged sexual harassment and gender-based discrimination. Beast Industries [has denied](https://www.dexerto.com/youtube/mrbeasts-company-denies-claims-in-former-employees-lawsuit-3354713/) the allegations. * [Tana Mongeau](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/digital/tana-mongeau-podcast-brand-safe-cancelled-brooke-schofield-1236571927/) launches a podcast, _Brand Safe_. * [Comedy creator and model Alex Consani](https://www.instagram.com/p/DXea5AFDTRL/) will appear in Season 13 of _American Horror Story_.  * [Emma Chamberlain](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nNILpIjGNDg&pp=ugUEEgJlbg%3D%3D) announces an indefinite break from her podcast. * [Visa and TikTok](https://www.visa.co.uk/about-visa/newsroom/press-releases.3444111.html) launch a credit card for creators. * [Podcast creator Bobbi Althoff](https://www.instagram.com/p/DXe7F6xiXEH/?img_index=7) joins the cast of _The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives: Orange County_.  * [Food creator iGumdrop](https://www.instagram.com/p/DXfF77Tkfs6/?hl=en&img_index=1) represents Asia-Pacific on _MasterChef: Global Gauntlet_. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 📚️ Thank You for Pressing Publish _The content we’re looking forward to watching, playing, and listening to this weekend._ * **Watch:** Comedian and _Boy Room _host Rachel Coster writes and stars in a [short film](https://vimeo.com/1182300575) about a knife salesman with a wild imagination.  * **Listen:** Music and puppet creator Sophie Truax releases a music video for her new song “[10 Feet Tall](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Y2mc14Yomg&list=RD3Y2mc14Yomg&start_radio=1),” featuring the ventriloquist doll that helped launch her career. * **Play:** Design creator Brandon Shepherd made a desktop app, [Refbox](https://ref.box/), for creators to use as a design reference for more streamlined workflow. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/inside-nas-daily-s-27m-fundraise

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/b1433598-6c89-426a-8493-853392d84837/0422_Header_No_Sponsor.png?t=1776871223) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning.** Italian sauce company Prego just launched the [Connection Keeper](https://www.campbells.com/prego/the-connection-keeper/#HowItWorks), a recording device that listens to your dinner conversations and uploads them to a portal. It all goes back to an old Italian tradition called “stato di sorveglianza,” or as we say in English…“surveillance state.” — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: **Today’s lineup:** 1. How one creator got 250 subscribers to attend a video premiere on a beach 2. The career education creator doubling her income year-over-year 3. Why this tech news creator went independent View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Inside PrestonGoes’ First IRL Video Premiere View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/08ecb47b-f1b2-451e-a53f-e4a2d17506ba/0422_Article_Photo_1.png?t=1776871244) Caption: PrestonGoes (right) premieres his latest YouTube video on a beach with 250 fans (left) / Photography by [Rodrigo Andres Palacios](https://www.instagram.com/p/DXF1Z95D4Ks/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==), [PrestonGoes](https://www.instagram.com/p/DHbUb7wJO-Q/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) Engineering and music creator Preston Summerow, aka [PrestonGoes](https://www.youtube.com/@prestongoes/featured), exported his latest [YouTube video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HhZNUNomXyo&t=186s) at 4:30pm on a Friday. By sunset, he was watching it on an LA beach with 250 subscribers. **Catch up quick →** * The premiere was Summerow’s first [in-person event](https://partiful.com/e/fNcb8qIlnANNeNjCvOK6) after two and a half years of being a full-time creator.  * He announced the event to his 1M subs just three days prior, with a Partiful link in the video description.  * The plan: host a free outdoor screening for a video ft. Summerow crossing an abandoned railroad with an ebike. **The goal: **"I wanted it to feel like a bunch of friends hanging out watching a fun YouTube video," Summerow told us.  That's exactly what it felt like, attendees told us. Apart from troubleshooting some technical difficulties with the inflatable screen—which fans said felt like “living inside a PrestonGoes video”—hundreds came with camp chairs and beach blankets. **What Summerow didn't expect:** How _wide_ his audience actually is. YouTube analytics told him one story—mostly young men watching his videos. The crowd told another—families with kids, 20-somethings, an older demographic all laughing at the same moments. A 55-year-old drove in from Washington state and two viewers flew in from Colorado.  **The takeaway?** Live audience reactions can teach you something the analytics dashboard can’t. His announcement video pulled 110K views before he deleted it post-premiere. A comment asking how the screening went collected 900 likes. “It gave me confidence to mobilize the subscribers. Asking for help has always been a hard thing for me in general, and since the premiere I’ve felt a new wave of ‘people are down to show up,’” Summerow said. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # How This Creator Doubled Her Income Three Years in a Row View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/b1bbc099-90ec-4ca8-bfd6-a5b3c39c099c/0422_Article_Photo_2.png?t=1776871287) Caption: Hanna Goefft shares career advice with over 500K followers / [Hanna Goefft](https://www.instagram.com/p/DXKYiBnmLP2/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) Career education creator Hanna “hannagetshired” Goefft has built a following of over 500K in just over three years giving [early](https://www.tiktok.com/@hannagetshired/video/7623474987139173646) [career](https://www.tiktok.com/@hannagetshired/video/7616575678418357518) [advice](https://www.tiktok.com/@hannagetshired/video/7600850446961478967). Her boldest career jump yet: doubling her salary year-over-year by adding deeper perspective and a stronger POV to her videos…even as AI infiltrates her niche. **We talked to Goefft about how she did it →** “I don't think it makes much sense for me anymore to give you five interview tips, because you can go to Claude and get tips that are better suited for your situation,” Goefft told us. “But I can look across trends that are happening in the world of work and translate them into my perspective about how you can apply that to your career strategy.” **So far, it’s working. **Here’s a quick snapshot of her business by the numbers:  * **$500K →** Goefft’s 2025 revenue, up from $250K in 2024 and $80K in 2023. She anticipates increasing her revenue again this year through ambassadorships and brand deals (the majority of which she says are AI-focused), with the goal of doubling revenue yet again.  * **30–40% → **The percentage of revenue that goes toward operating costs, including management fees and paying her small team of freelancers. * **90–95% →** How much of her income comes from brand deals. The rest comes from platform monetization and digital products. “Previously, my partnerships were just more focused on promoting a product,” Goefft told us. “Now, it's more focused on delivering a specific message related to the world of work.” **Bottom line?** Adding perspective to her brand deals changed the quality and price of Goefft’s partnerships. Brands (like [Adobe](https://www.tiktok.com/@hannagetshired/video/7626840781877218573) or [LinkedIn](https://www.tiktok.com/@hannagetshired/video/7615321798200085774)) want to be packaged alongside tangible advice, not just one-note product promotion. _If you want more insight into creator salaries, _[_sign up_](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScligv2GLkyHa2Nr9dbzlKPvd5orFdtxIqva4i0S3ptAgfVDw/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=102048335718617266759)_ to receive our creator income report—releasing soon._ View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: A note from the Press Publish LA team # The Hollywood Hills Are Alive With the Sound of PPLA View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/810c3292-c581-4522-a51e-b0056d3faad9/0309_PPLA_copy_2.gif?t=1773073373) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: These days, when we’re not painstakingly crafting the best Webby-nominated newsletter on the internet, we’re deep in the planning process for **Press Publish LA: The Hollywood Creator Summit.** **What goes into that planning? ** **First, there’s the venue. **Fox Studio Lot is home to _The Sound of Music_, _Alien_, and now…our summit. We know firsthand how a venue can make or break a live event, and we’re happy to report that our space will be as awesome as the programming (stay tuned for our first speaker announcement dropping soon 👀). **Then, there’s making space for the in-between. **We know the most meaningful moments won’t _just_ happen on stage. They’ll happen as all of you share ideas, connections, and creativity in the little moments. Take ​​creator and [documentary host](https://www.youtube.com/user/SamEckholm) **Sam Eckholm, **who attended Press Publish NYC. He spent the last five years trying to connect with a YouTube partner. It was at **Press Publish NYC** in September when that connection finally happened.  * “Press Publish is one of the few events where the right people are in the room,” Eckholm told us.  * “The conversations I had there led to real relationships and opportunities that meaningfully shaped the next chapter of my channel and business.” If this sounds like the kind of room you want to be in, apply today. We have fewer than 100 creator tickets left.  Apply for PPLA (https://luma.com/ouyxukg0) —Press Publish LA team (Syd, Hannah, Loz, Josh, Colin, and Samir) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Why This News Creator (Sort Of) Left Legacy Media View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/0b42db65-cd57-498f-81ce-03341451147f/0422_Article_Photo_3.png?t=1776871422) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Joanna Stern (right) features Casey Neistat (left) in her first long-form YouTube video since leaving the _Wall Street Journal _/ [Joanna Stern](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qd2Dyr0m3BI) Today, tech journalist Joanna Stern launched [New Things](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qd2Dyr0m3BI), an independent news YouTube channel and Substack, [after 12 years](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/joannastern_some-personal-news-for-real-im-doing-one-activity-7425194617270353920-X6qz?utm_source=social_share_send&utm_medium=member_desktop_web&rcm=ACoAACj5XioBaWjIByIVk96QI_W7tw1lSQBx-QQ) at the _Wall Street Journal_. Stern’s first video? A breakdown of her decision to leave the _WSJ_ ft. a special guest: her mentor, Casey Neistat. **Why she left **_**WSJ**_**:** “I realized I was really focused on these other platforms and not as much on the _Wall Street Journal_’s main digital and print site,” Stern told us. * With short-form video taking over the news creator space, Stern spent the majority of her time producing video content for _WSJ_ and wanted the opportunity to produce videos independently.  * She used the business experience and confidence gained from writing her most recent book, _I Am Not a Robot_, to go indie. **Of note: **Stern isn’t quite done with legacy media. In addition to New Things, she’s becoming NBC’s new [chief technology analyst](https://variety.com/2026/tv/news/joanna-stern-joins-nbc-news-chief-technology-analyst-1236691309/).  “People underestimate that sometimes journalism can be a lonely job,” Stern said. Stern wanted both a collaborative work environment with other producers and journalists and access to an older audience that isn’t as tapped into the tech niche on social media. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Digital management company Fixated](https://variety.com/2026/digital/news/studio71-acquired-fixated-digital-creators-1236723701/) acquires media company Studio71. * [Tommyinnit](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5zekeO5uzaM) launches a weekly interview show. * [Roblox](https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/tech-news/roblox-alabama-settlement-attorney-general-rcna341128) settles for $35.2M in Alabama and West Virginia cases over child safety. * [Jasontheween and Pokimane](https://x.com/ilySalt/status/2046360438435397998?s=20) are suing X account KickChamp for falsely accusing them of being involved in a murder case. * [20 Unwell staffers](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-04-20/alix-earle-feud-isn-t-alex-cooper-s-only-problem-as-unwell-network-struggles?srnd=undefine&utm_source=scalablepod.com&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=how-creators-plan-to-fix-influencer-marketing&_bhlid=b0c90a634e653313b51d6a50c69ec5dac201af49) have recently departed from the company, _Bloomberg_ reports. * [Keke Palmer](https://www.twitch.tv/keke/clip/InventiveOriginalPheasantDAESuppy-xk3L_D8Yht3rXPGb) starts a live show on Twitch. * [Fashion creator Chelsea Parke](https://corporate.target.com/press/release/2026/04/target-partners-with-social-media-beloved-brand-on-new-style-collection) releases a clothing collab with Target. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/the-1m-subscriber-beach-day

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/6479cc6b-ed1d-485a-92f2-bfb10e883fbb/0420_Header_No_Sponsor.png?t=1776696562) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning.** Calling all LA creators: This Friday morning, we’re hosting a Coffee with Creators at The Lighthouse in Venice. Arrive early for the inside scoop on Hannah and Syd’s unhinged coffee orders. RSVP here (https://luma.com/9yph09js) — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: **Today’s lineup:** 1. Mark Rober builds a $60M STEM education program 2. Why Adobe is funding a short-form series 3. Two creators go viral for an Olive Garden compass View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Mark Rober Dedicates $60M to Free STEM Education View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/b5824650-0f69-4c55-843b-71e204616c84/0420_Article_Photo_1.png?t=1776696579) Caption: Mark Rober (third from left) develops free online STEM videos for teaching 3rd-8th grade students / [Class CrunchLabs](https://www.classcrunchlabs.org/about-us) [Mark Rober](https://www.youtube.com/@MarkRober/videos) wants to equip every science classroom with creator-led tools—and have fun doing it. That’s why he just launched [Class CrunchLabs](https://www.classcrunchlabs.org/), a free STEM curriculum designed for 3rd–8th grade teachers. He launched the first three pilot courses last week as part of a $60 million program, funded by both CrunchLabs and anonymous investors. **The hypothesis:** If anyone can get kids to care about learning, it’s a creator. “If you think about the amount of revenue that gets funneled off of CrunchLabs into this nonprofit, no corporation would make that decision,” CrunchLabs head of media [Luke Hale](https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-hale/) told us. “But it's not a corporation, it's Mark Rober's business. [...] I think it's a luxury of what the business model is.”  **Breaking down that business model:**  * Rober has spent the last 15 years conducting [larger-than-life](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e09xig209cQ) [science](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VrKW58MS12g) [experiments](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ugRc5jx80yg), raking in 75 million YouTube subscribers and 16 billion views.  * Netflix and Samsung have licensed Rober’s videos, and his company CrunchLabs sells monthly subscription [Build Boxes](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/imagine) to teach kids about science. * Class CrunchLabs is part of the CrunchLabs.org Foundation, a nonprofit [that launched](https://www.prweb.com/releases/crunchlabsorg-foundation-launches-with-7-2m-grant-to-transform-science-class-through-youtube-style-videos-and-hands-on-discovery-302589852.html) with a $7.2 million anonymous donation and seed funding from CrunchLabs. The class’ 50-person team includes 30 educators building out the courses. “The biggest issue in science education is the motivation gap,” Rober told Colin and Samir. “You can have the best curriculum in the world, but if the students don't care, it doesn't matter.” **The next phase:** Rober takes inspiration from other education creators like [Bill Nye](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-K_CHgcazI) (who got Hannah through her science classes) and [Crash Course](https://www.youtube.com/@crashcourse) (which saved Syd in AP World History). Although Class CrunchLabs currently offers three pilot classes covering topics like magnetics and gravity, Rober’s goal is to provide full curricula over the next four years—a resource that will remain free forever.  Want to hear the rest of Rober’s conversation with Colin and Samir? Stay tuned for the full episode, dropping soon on [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@ColinandSamir) and [Spotify](https://open.spotify.com/show/5QaSbbv2eD4SFrlFR6IyY7). View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Are Brands Becoming the Next Hollywood Financiers? View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/91768664-c6ab-4a58-815a-3cc4f0b7c83d/0420_Article_Photo_2.png?t=1776696610) Caption: Hasan Minhaj (left) and Patty Guggenheim (right) star in Adobe's show _The Marketers_ spotlighting Adobe Acrobat's AI tools / [Adobe Acrobat](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c684LbSSCGk) Creators want to get their scripted projects made. For years, that meant pitching studios like Lionsgate, Netflix, or A24. But now, that’s changing. Brands are becoming financial backers for creative pursuits—and Adobe's approach offers a blueprint for how it works. The tech platform recently launched _[The Marketers](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c684LbSSCGk)_, a YouTube workplace comedy starring Hasan Minhaj and Patty Guggenheim (with [a cameo](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qbr8qoEAV0A) from our own Colin and Samir). The show features Acrobat's AI tools. **We spoke with Adobe Global Social Lead Jared Carneson **about why the brand is getting into scripted content → "The episodic format lets us build a full narrative arc where Acrobat lives inside the story,” Carneson told us. Rather than making content that interrupts narrative, the brand is looking to fund narrative content—and earns its presence within it. **What it means for creators: **Brands like Adobe are no longer just sponsors looking for logo placement. They're looking for recurring characters, storylines, and formats built to scale into franchises. Carneson says shows that get greenlit must be 1) platform native 2) genuine creative concepts and 3) repeatable formats. **But there's a catch.** Carneson is explicit that the bar for product integration is high: "If you have to pause the story to explain a feature, you've lost," he said.  **Big picture: **Brands like Adobe backing short-form aren’t buying reach, they’re buying credibility—which means creators who want in must demonstrate authentic fluency with the product instead of just a large audience.  _This is part of our series featuring short-form shows from creators and brands to understand their businesses, challenges, and biggest opportunities. Read our earlier coverage on _[_Milky Tran_](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/wall-street-blocks-khaby-lame)_, _[_Infinite Elliott_](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/inside-jesser-s-re-org)_, and _[_NY Nico_](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/the-creator-world-cup)_._ View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Two Creators Make a Compass That Points to Olive Garden View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/4b3ca767-d1b4-4cae-b898-a25b37ccaad8/0420_Article_Photo_3.png?t=1776696630) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Jason Goldberg (right) shares the behind-the-scenes of making a compass that only points to the Times Square Olive Garden / [Olive Garden](https://www.instagram.com/olivegardencompass/) [Compass](https://www.tiktok.com/@olivegardencompass/video/7623105527999974686?embed_source=121374463%2C121468991%2C121439635%2C121749182%2C121433650%2C121404359%2C121497414%2C122221973%2C122122240%2C121351166%2C121811500%2C121960941%2C122122244%2C122122243%2C122122242%2C121487028%2C121679410%2C122258714%2C121331973%2C120811592%2C120810756%2C121885509%3Bnull%3Bembed_fullscreen&refer=embed&referer_url=cdn.embedly.com%2Fwidgets%2Fmedia.html%3Fsrc%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.tiktok.com%252Fembed%252Fv2%252F7623105527999974686%26display_name%3Dtiktok%26url%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.tiktok.com%252F%2540olivegardencompass%252Fvideo%252F7623105527999974686%26image%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fp16-common-sign.tiktokcdn-us.com%252Ftos-useast8-p-0068-tx2%252FoAMIsxTbKtjMIHeILWAfLQQGKAGqlr4CSYeqjm%257Etplv-tiktokx-origin.image%253Fdr%253D9636%2526x-expires%253D1775926800%2526x-signature%253DMQDmzY8XtFWn5WKGpTkkI2BiNC0%25253D%2526t%253D4d5b0474%2526ps%253D13740610%2526shp%253D81f88b70%2526shcp%253D43f4a2f9%2526idc%253Duseast8%26type%3Dtext%252Fhtml%26schema%3Dtiktok%26wmode%3Dopaque&referer_video_id=7623105527999974686) Finally, an answer to the perpetual question of “where are the bottomless breadsticks?” Earlier this month, two freelance creative directors—[Jason Goldberg](https://www.instagram.com/jason_goldberg/) and [Steve Nasopoulos](https://www.instagram.com/isstevetaken/)—went viral for making a physical compass that points to the Times Square Olive Garden. **The details behind the bit: **Goldberg and Nasopoulos spent two years making the compass with a freelance engineer. A week after they started posting about it on social, Olive Garden’s marketing team reached out…the [same day](https://www.tiktok.com/@olivegardencompass/video/7626146700867931422) the chain’s legal team sent a cease and desist. "The posts that we get the most feedback on are the ones where we're telling a story," Goldberg told us. [Behind-the-scenes](https://www.tiktok.com/@olivegardencompass/video/7629371569223060766) content has outperformed the product reveal itself. **Big picture:** Memes—like Anthpo's [Kid with Crocs](https://www.instagram.com/kidwithcrocs/) or software engineer Ben Walker's [salt fork](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4FPwNkkMPrE)—can move products, and Goldberg and Nasopoulos have over 3K pre-orders to prove it. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 👀 Creator Jobs * **Ali Abdaal** is hiring a [YouTube creative director](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2292834-youtube-creative-director-ali-abdaal) based in Hong Kong or willing to relocate. * **AI education creator Justin Bateh** is hiring a [newsletter manager](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2268820-newsletter-manager) for his newsletter, Tactical Memo. * **Magnet Originals** is hiring a [contract social media editor](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2292833-social-media-yt-tt-video-editor-magnet-originals) to work on a music documentary podcast. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Sidemen’s Charity Match](http://youtube.com/live/o3e_tlcddxc?si=AoAIkKIXyU6Pegz5) livestream drew in over 1 million concurrent viewers this weekend. * [Minecraft creator Tubbo](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3XSAg2Adxcs) is releasing a coffee brand, available April 26. * [Netflix](https://www.theverge.com/streaming/913539/netflix-mobile-app-update-vertical-video) launches an in-app vertical feed. * [Snap](https://newsroom.snap.com/organizational-changes-at-snap) lays off 16% of its employees. * [Streamer CDawgVA](https://tiltify.com/@cdawgva/cyclethon-5) raises almost $1.5 million for the Immune Deficiency Foundation with his annual Cyclethon. * [YouTube](https://www.tubefilter.com/2026/04/17/youtube-clipping-tool-viewer-clips-shorts/) discontinues its Clips feature, making a similar short-form clipping feature available in YouTube Studio. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/move-over-bill-nye

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/36dd7404-34b5-4722-9075-78717d0c3e0a/0417_Header_No_Sponsor__1_.png?t=1776441893) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning.** YouTube now lets users limit Shorts viewership to zero minutes per day—effectively shutting off the feed for those who want to.  We will be using these newly regained hours of our time to catch up on TikTok. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: **Today’s lineup:** 1. Sports media company The Overlap buys two YouTube channels 2. The NY creator bringing mockumentary storytelling to short-form 3. How many people are actually streaming podcasts on Netflix View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # UK Sports Media Group Buys Soccer YouTube Channels View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/05d5285d-bebc-4310-bd51-a06f232fa009/0417_Article_Photo_1.png?t=1776440440) Caption: Gary Neville (left) acquires two sports commentary channels from creator Mark Goldbridge (right) / [Gary Neville](https://www.instagram.com/p/DQd1AocjANC/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==), [Mark Goldbridge](https://www.instagram.com/p/DVWTuw1CEok/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) [The Overlap](https://www.youtube.com/@TheOverlap), a sports media company owned by former Manchester United captain Gary Neville, just acquired two football (⚽, not 🏈) YouTube channels from sports creator Mark Goldbridge, bringing 3.7 million new subscribers into the fold. **Prior to kickoff:** Goldbridge has been streaming daily football commentary for [over a decade](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-HaOF-AFYs) on YouTube channels [The United Stand](https://www.youtube.com/@UnitedStand/streams) and [That’s Football](https://www.youtube.com/@thatsfootball/videos), racking up 2.3 billion views for his brash critiques on Manchester United. **Details on the deal: **The Overlap purchased Goldbridge’s channels for seven figures—though an exact amount hasn’t been made public. **The goal?** Give fans the commentary they want. While [other streamers](https://www.bbc.com/sport/rugby-union/articles/c5ylpjv8dzwo) have purchased full streaming rights to certain sporting events (like Brazil’s CazéTV broadcasting all 104 FIFA World Cup matches), Neville said The Overlap aims to control “the noise segment” by serving as fans’ first stop for conversation around the UK’s Premier League, as reported by _[The Guardian](https://www.theguardian.com/media/2026/apr/14/gary-neville-the-overlap-mark-goldbridge-youtube-football)_. “It’s new shows, it’s more content, it’s bigger guests, better resources,” Goldbridge said on his [announcement livestream](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xIO5ldtpyeM&t=2s). **How we see it:** Soccer is the most popular sport in the world, with an estimated 3.5 billion fans globally. As the World Cup looms around the corner, all eyes will be on sports creators to set the tone for football commentary. Even platforms are getting involved, from free broadcasts on TikTok to officially licensed games on Roblox. The Overlap (like OpenAI’s recent purchase of TBPN) is leveling up by buying into the nichecasting market—with a strong understanding of [how engaged](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/why-openai-bought-a-tech-live-show) those audiences can be.  View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Inside the Making of NY Nico’s ‘Surreality’ Show View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/9f0e813e-8724-4acf-9312-5b0b96584e74/0417_Article_Photo_2.png?t=1776441925) Caption: New York Nico (left) films his "surreality show" with a recurring cast including Erma Camporese (middle) and (fourth from left to right) Robert Brender, Kareem Rahma, Jamal Alnasr, and William Banks / Photography by [Skylar Searing](https://www.instagram.com/raelyks/), [Revival of the](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DUBIbCHkXv1/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) [Fittest](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DVFLiaEkYvv/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) _From Subway Takes to microdramas, short-form content is raking in views—and attention—at a rapid clip. But no two creators are building a short-form business the same way. _ _So? We're featuring several creators of _[_short-form_](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/wall-street-blocks-khaby-lame)_ _[_shows_](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/inside-jesser-s-re-org)_ to understand their businesses, challenges, and biggest opportunities._ **Next up: **Documentary filmmaker Nicolas Heller, aka [NY Nico](https://www.instagram.com/newyorknico/).  He’s spent years spotlighting NYC small businesses, and now he's channeling that into _[Revival of the Fittest](https://www.instagram.com/revivalofthefittest.tv/)_, a "surreality show" centered on friend Jamal's NY record shop and the rotating cast who orbit it: [Robert](https://www.instagram.com/ribert6060/), [Erma](https://www.instagram.com/ermacamporese/), [William](https://www.instagram.com/williambanks_/), and others from Heller's real-life universe.  **So how’s it going? **The show has hit 190K followers and over 5 million views in three months.  **Heller told us how** _**Revival**_** broke through the noise → ** **The format is the hook.** Viewers [can’t tell](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DUwkruWDRS9/) what’s scripted and what’s not—and that ambiguity is the point. Drawing from comedies like _[Nirvanna The Band The Show](https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/amzn1.dv.gti.daad0066-021d-f327-0e07-38d4a6ac5f63?autoplay=0&ref_=atv_cf_strg_wb)_, Heller built a world that’s “a hybrid of fiction and reality," he told us. Episodes don’t include "previously on" recaps and sometimes pick up [threads](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DXEp7h4Edry/) from weeks ago—rewarding loyal fans. **It’s fast to make. **Heller films on an iPhone from his POV, shoots twice a week in four-hour stints, and spends an hour editing each episode—keeping costs to a few hundred dollars. "I just wanted something I could do consistently on my own dime and my own schedule," Heller said. **The show is a creative lifeline.** "I've been doing so much client work for the past six years that I lost sight of what gave me passion," Heller said. _Revival_ gave him both that and a sustainable way to help a friend's struggling business grow.  **And maybe that’s why it works. **_Subway Takes_ creator [Kareem Rahma](https://kareemrahma.substack.com/p/do-not-launch-a-new-short-form-unscripted?r=1d5a6&utm_medium=ios&fbclid=PAZnRzaAQn3gpleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA8xMjQwMjQ1NzQyODc0MTQAAaen1U-FCDaZRwF-NwDvZbjvXw1rRXqkIVEzP86sItkIUTsaCwY20qMl0B17Bg_aem_WaEtDYQ9F1ZGXwquJp8lYQ&triedRedirect=true) recently wrote that short-form hits “did not think about virality or engagement [...] they thought about creating the most entertaining thing they could make and, more importantly, something personal.” _Revival_ is living proof. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Who Actually Watches Podcasts on Netflix? View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/afa1659d-825b-4d64-b66c-e8ff2d479bc7/0417_Article_Photo_3.png?t=1776440402) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Netflix began streaming video podcasts in January, including shows (top to bottom) _Dear Chelsea_, _My Favorite Murder_, and _The Breakfast Club _/ [Netflix](https://www.netflix.com/tudum/podcasts#NOWPLAYING) As the dust settles from Q1, we finally have our first data point in The Great Podcast Wars between Netflix and YouTube: **13% of US-based Netflix households** watched a podcast on a TV over the last three months, according to TV research company [Samba](https://v0-netflix-podcast-ranker.vercel.app/). **For comparison: **YouTube has reported [1 billion monthly active podcast users](https://blog.google/feed/youtube-podcast-listeners/), 37% of its total monthly users. **Behind the data:** * Samba collects data through chips installed in millions of smart TVs, according to _[Bloomberg](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2026-04-09/netflix-s-new-podcasting-effort-has-an-early-winner)_. * The data does not include Netflix mobile users, which are expected to be higher than TV users. * Samba counts Netflix “views” as at least one minute of streaming, so the percentage of households that completed an episode is likely much lower. “The data we see today aren't benchmarks or trends—they're early signals of a formerly mobile-first medium in evolution,” Samba’s VP of Measurement Science Alyson Sprague wrote in the blog post. “And those signals are genuinely encouraging.” View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [CatGPT](https://www.masterclass.com/classes/revolutionize-your-workflows-with-ai?utm_source=instructor&utm_term=Aq-Prospecting&utm_content=VanityLink_Referral&utm_campaign=aiproductivity&utm_medium=organic) is leading a course on AI for personal productivity for MasterClass. * [Mountain biking creator Seth Alvo](https://youtu.be/G7A39kS2QMQ?si=NiN9ybrr8Ly9nRXt) becomes part-owner in a bike gear company. * [John Chungus](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BsL8VMxhGKI) releases the first episode of his new talk show, _The John Chungus Show_. * [Creators including Drew Talbert and Feed The Malik](https://www.fivetwonine.com/the-creator-fund-cannes-lions-2026#winners) receive Billion Dollar Boy’s Cannes Lions scholarship. * [Business creator Oren John](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DXFJKPkjREx/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==) breaks down a list of least to most lucrative creator niches. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 📚️ Thank You for Pressing Publish _The content we’re looking forward to reading, watching, and listening to this weekend._ * **Read:** Our own Samir Chaudry wrote an essay, _[The Last Honest Internet Sensation](https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/last-honest-internet-sensation-samir-chaudry--nefhc/)_, exploring 1) how Justin Bieber’s Coachella set represents a long-gone creator era and 2) how story and craft are more important than ever. * **Watch:** Last month, Corridor Crew launched an open-source green screen tool for free, but it used too much storage for the average VFX creator. With the help of VFX artists, fans, and programmers, Niko from Corridor Crew shows how the team was able to [improve the tool](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y3Dfw969itU&t=588s). * **Listen:** Music creator Zay Dante releases “[Bounce](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iwaVoCdnPtg&list=RDiwaVoCdnPtg&start_radio=1),” the lead single from his new album _Taste_. The music video stars comedy creators like Zavior Phillips and Madi Hart. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/the-creator-world-cup

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/01bf2121-47d8-45d6-8a86-3cae6bdb758c/0415_Header__3_.png?t=1776268776) Follow image link: (https://centraltalentbooking.com/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=publishpress_20260213) Caption: **Good morning.** It’s your last chance to help us win a Webby—voting closes Thursday at midnight PT. Shoutout to Publish IG follower and Moment creator [David Lieske](https://www.instagram.com/davey_gravy/) who said, “if you don’t win this I’m quitting the internet.” Keep David on the internet. Vote now 👇️ Help us win a Webby here (https://vote.webbyawards.com/PublicVoting?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGn0W_t0A27RLa2mfo-7DmGK7P4kO0yb0k59F3tNKRYMYTI5CL0pYegVMeP7qA_aem_7AnHd5_QlkHxwtX9h8VuCg#/2026/creators/creator-business/newsletter-or-written-series) — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: **Today’s lineup:** 1. Unpacking Jesser’s business expansion 2. The short-form creator building a TV slate 3. A rise in creator-led fundraising View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Jesser Launches Holding Company View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/c8b2e30f-7c6f-45b7-b450-ac0a6d5fdf94/0415_Article_Photo_1__2_.png?t=1776267897) Caption: Jesser unites his content business and apparel brand under a new holding company, JesserCo. / [Jesser](https://www.instagram.com/p/DOPDZdcEu4J/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) Basketball YouTube creator Jesse "[Jesser](https://www.youtube.com/@Jesser)" Riedel just launched **JesserCo.**, a holding company uniting his content operation, **Jesser Media** (40M+ subscribers, 10B+ views), and apparel brand, **Bucketsquad** (which crossed eight figures in revenue last year).  **Why now? **[Zach Miller](http://linkedin.com/in/zachmiller11/?skipRedirect=true),** **now president of JesserCo., exclusively told Publish that it’s about opening doors to new verticals and improving leadership structures.  "We thought it was the right thing to restructure the businesses and make it clear that Bucketsquad is the apparel business and Jesser is the media brand," Miller said. **Breaking down the business: ** * Bucketsquad has grown over 100% annually over the last three years.  * While the media business and apparel brand are comparable in size, JesserMedia has larger margins…while Bucketsquad generates more revenue. **The main goal of the restructure?** Reducing key man risk. Rather than building everything under one integrated platform—think Dude Perfect—JesserCo. is deliberately seeding standalone brands that can eventually exist independently of Jesser himself.  * Bucketsquad, currently in 75 Dick's Sporting Goods locations across the US, is already testing that thesis. * "It's possible that 5–10 years from now, people will not think of Bucketsquad as Jesser's apparel business, but rather as a sports streetwear brand that Jesser founded," Miller said. **As for future verticals: **They’ll go through a three-question filter, Miller told us. 1. Is Jesser passionate about it? 2. Does the audience want it? 3. Is it a good business?  JesserCo. plans to launch a hard goods line this summer, including sporting equipment as a natural extension of products that already appear in Jesser videos. **For creators thinking about scaling:** Miller's advice is to resist outside capital until you actually need it. Start by optimizing content profitably, reinvesting what you make, and building from there. "You could make a lot of content without spending a lot of money, start generating revenue, and feed the flywheel that way," he said. "Creators should maintain control." View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # The New TV Producer Is a Creator View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/505f0a15-37d5-4dca-99ce-bb51f18228d6/0415_Article_Photo_2__1_.png?t=1776267910) Caption: Elliott Walker (right) writes, produces, and stars in his own scripted comedy show, _Wrecked Records_ (left) / [Wrecked Records](https://www.instagram.com/p/DQaRLyvEjHs/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==), [Infinite Elliott](https://www.instagram.com/p/CoY6CVVsizA/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) _From Subway Takes to microdramas, short-form content is raking in views—and attention—at a rapid clip. But no two creators are building a short-form content business the same way. _ _So? We’re featuring several short-form creators _[this week](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/wall-street-blocks-khaby-lame)_ to understand their businesses, challenges, and biggest opportunities._ By day, **Elliott Walker**, aka [Infinite Elliott](https://www.instagram.com/infiniteelliott/), freelances as a show producer for brands. By night, he self-funds and produces _Wrecked Records_, his own [scripted ensemble](https://www.instagram.com/wreckedrecordsshow/) comedy set inside a record store. Among the growing cohort of short-form creators charting their own courses, Walker illustrates the path of the **modern-day producer**—balancing a mix of personal and work projects to build his own slate of creator IP. **So what does that modern-day producer think about building a successful IP business?** Here’s Walker’s POV → **Use constraints as a tool.** Walker scripts episodes for _Wrecked Records_ around actor availability and free filming locations, bringing each episode to $300–$400 in production costs.  "Some of my best work comes from constraint," Walker told us. When _Wrecked Records_ was costing him $1,700 a month, he paused, recalibrated, and came back leaner. **Fund from multiple streams.** Brand deals on his personal account and freelance production work—such as street shows and branded content—subsidize his originals.  **Build a slate, not just a show.** Walker wants to own multiple shows simultaneously instead of betting everything on one. Alongside _Wrecked Records_, he’s co-producing a sci-fi interview show. The goal is to film eight episodes in six-hour blocks and upload twice a week.  **Looking ahead:** Walker just finished a 22-minute pilot adaptation of _Wrecked Records_ he's shopping to TV networks—not for Hollywood validation, but for budget and scale. "I really want to make longer stuff," he said. "I don't know how else I would make it work in the way I want to." View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: Sponsored by [Central Talent Booking](https://centraltalentbooking.com/bookings/what-are-we-even-doing-5?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=publishpress_20260407) # How a Hollywood Vet Landed Charlie Puth For His New Podcast View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/678809b2-84de-46fd-806a-49ce4d35bf1d/CharliePuth-Publish_Press.jpeg?t=1776265761) Follow image link: (https://centraltalentbooking.com/bookings/what-are-we-even-doing-5?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=publishpress_20260407) Caption: From Twin Peaks to Inside Out, Kyle MacLachlan has built an eclectic acting career over the past four decades. His latest move? A podcast where he sits down with millennial and Gen Z artists to dig into their creative processes. To build his guest list, he’s turned to **Central Talent Booking**. Their 26+ years of industry insight helps hosts like MacLachlan book big names from the jump. Case in point? CTB helped him land Charlie Puth, who got candid with MacLachlan about his beginnings in music and his upcoming adventure into fatherhood. Want to build a guest roster that matches the ambitions for your podcast or channel? [Partner with CTB today](https://centraltalentbooking.com/bookings/what-are-we-even-doing-5?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=publishpress_20260407). View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Creator Fundraising Reaches New Highs View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/b372883e-7e25-4d4b-ac1b-183e3617db73/0415_Article_Photo_3__2_.png?t=1776268790) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Creators including (left to right) IronMouse, Lilsimsie, and CDawgVA raise over $100M for charity on Tiltify / [IronMouse](https://x.com/ironmouse/status/2027901916034768915?s=20), [Lilsimsie](https://lilsimsiemerch.com/), [CDawgVA](https://x.com/CDawgVA/status/1768091399776579895?s=20) Creator fundraising increased 46% last year, with creators raising [more than](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/creator-led-fundraising-crosses-100-million-on-tiltify-in-2025-as-platform-launches-countdown-of-the-years-top-30-fundraisers-302671272.html#:~:text=The%20Year%20Creator%20Philanthropy%20Went,$1.5%20million%20for%20relief%20efforts.) $100M for non-profits on fundraising site Tiltify alone, the platform said. **The big draws:** California fire relief, MrBeast and Mark Rober’s [Team Water](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/mrbeast-and-mark-rober-are-teaming-up-again-9d355ba2a73a2a4b), and Ryan Trahan’s [50 States in 50 Days](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/inside-ryan-trahan-s-50-day-youtube-marathon-d08f84877f8a7a62) series, which together raised more than $50M. Gaming creators showed out too, with Ironmouse, Lilsimsie, and CDawgVA [each raising over $1M](https://blog.tiltify.com/community/tiltify-top-30-fundraisers-2025/) for charity. **Big picture: **US charitable giving reached [a record](https://givingusa.org/giving-usa-2025-u-s-charitable-giving-grew-to-592-50-billion-in-2024-lifted-by-stock-market-gains/) $592B in 2024, but the overall number of individual donors is on [the decline](https://www.goodunited.io/blog/decline-of-individual-giving-nonprofits#:~:text=Where%20Have%20All%20the%20Small,outside%20the%20established%20nonprofit%20ecosystem.). Tiltify's report shows that, while institutional philanthropy has become concentrated among wealthy donors, creator-led campaigns are encouraging grassroots participation among the next generation of givers. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # ➕ Community Tab While Press Publish LA is top of mind, we’re building out the rest of our summer event calendar. Two questions for you: ---------- -------------------- ----------View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Ms. Rachel](https://wwd.com/footwear-news/shoe-industry-news/ms-rachel-stride-rite-childrens-shoe-collection-details-1238894841/) is releasing a kids sneaker collab with Stride Rite. * [Sidetalk](https://www.instagram.com/p/DXIKM4GDf7Y/) starts a podcast called _We Outside_. * [IShowSpeed](https://x.com/TripleH/status/2041321310953918957?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2041321310953918957%7Ctwgr%5E1c0e067f84e56cb80a912ce5d1afd0668244dae5%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dexerto.com%2Fyoutube%2Fishowspeed-debut-wwe-match-wrestlemania-42-3347521%2F) is making his WWE debut at Wrestlemania. * [Video essayist Gaming Historian](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nV_Aww8_6wQ) is retiring from YouTube after 18 years. * [Political YouTube channel MeidasTouch](https://www.podcastnewsdaily.com/news/meidastouch-targets-growth-acquisitions-after-soros-led-investment/article_e6e3241d-05a2-4caa-ba6b-dbadd4cbdd87.html) gets an investment from Soros Fund Management. * [Jacksepticeye](https://x.com/IGN/status/2043908512699261175?s=20) is producing an animated feature film with Sony Pictures based on the popular game series _Bloodborne_. * [YouTube](https://x.com/nealmohan/status/2043751091712733362?s=46&t=NmWUNlnKIvC4arpjp1a_kQ) is adding more features to livestreams, including Gifting to more creators in Canada and Australia. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/inside-jesser-s-re-org

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/24149729-d280-45d2-afc4-29c874f9cc3d/0413_Header.png?t=1776095295) Follow image link: (http://storyblocks.com/PublishPress) Caption: **Good morning.** LA was a ghost town this weekend as creators and industry folks flocked to Indio for ~~Coa~~Bieber-chella (if someone can get us press passes for next weekend...call us). Much of Bieber’s set involved pulling up YouTube videos and playing classic hits like “Sorry” and “Beauty and a Beat.” It was a nostalgia-fueled time that made everyone [Future Mrs. Bieber](https://x.com/ComplexStyle/status/2042715606869332112), if only for a moment. And speaking of LA creators—we’re bringing back a community favorite event for you later this month. Scroll for details. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: **Today’s lineup:** 1. What happened to Khaby Lame’s $975M stock deal 2. How one creator self-funds a scripted short-form series 3. The state leading the way in child creator protection laws View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Brokerages Halt Khaby Lame Stock Investment View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/53eeb2d0-8433-4710-875f-509c2ad9d4b2/0413_Article_Photo_1.png?t=1776095393) Caption: Brokerages limit online trading on the stock tied to Khaby Lame's merger / [Khaby](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DDplqAVyRQ6/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) [Lame](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DRH_aRniskM/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) Last week, several brokerages including Fidelity, E*Trade, and Charles Schwab [blocked](https://www.businessinsider.com/tiktok-creator-khaby-lame-mega-deal-brokerages-restrict-trading-2026-4) online trading or put restrictions on shares of the stock behind Khaby Lame's [recent merger](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/inside-khaby-lame-s-almost-1b-deal) with Hong Kong-based financial company Rich Sparkle Holdings. **Catch up quick →**  * In January, Lame merged his business with Rich Sparkle Holdings in a deal valued at up to $975 million.  * The premise: leverage TikTok's most-followed creator to power a broad e-commerce play, using AI to recreate Lame’s likeness, run brand deals, and sell games, toys, and consumer goods. **On paper, it's a proven model. **Selling likeness at scale has worked before: Shaquille O'Neal [sold his](https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/14389093/shaquille-oneal-sells-rights-future-business-endeavors) name, image, and likeness to media company Authentic Brands Group in 2015, for example. "The premise of this idea is spot on," [Jeff Frommer](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jefffrommer/), investor and founder of creator-brand matching company [OWM](https://www.owm.ai/?utm_campaign=the-death-of-the-short-term-brand-deal&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=news.thepublishpress.com), told us. "But the execution—what it will do to get creators nervous about these big paydays—that's the problem." **So what happened? **The stock jumped to [nearly $180](https://www.forbes.com/sites/martinadilicosa/2026/01/31/tiktok-superstar-khaby-lames-big-deal-which-saw-him-valued-at-66-billion-raises-red-flags-experts-say/) per share when it was first announced in January but fell quickly [amid confusion](https://x.com/Kwebbelkop/status/2017976233976275173?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Etweet) over the deal's future. No formal filings confirmed the deal was complete, and there were no records showing Lame's company had received the share of the new entity it was promised post-merger. “The structure of this deal was poor and the company behind it I’m not familiar with, but it felt like the right future world that we’re going to live in,” Frommer said. “But the first market mover advantage was one that was built on a house of cards.” **Another path →** Building a business with longevity means building value beyond a creator’s likeness, Frommer told us. For example, Beast Industries is building an empire that straddles multiple industries such as fintech, phone services, and CPG. Woodworking creator Jonathan Katz-Moses sells his own line of tools.  "Going public is like getting an investor at scale," Frommer said. "You need a real business underneath it." **Big picture: **The deal's unraveling may spook investors on creator partnerships—at least temporarily. Frommer's takeaway for creators? "Choose the right business partners. Scale the trust you've earned." View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Ex-Jubilee Producer Launches Short-Form Scripted Series View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/8c60f09c-b231-4429-b3b1-64a5c78f4cdd/0413_Article_Photo_2.png?t=1776095483) Caption: Milky Tran writes, directs, and casts for her own scripted show, _Next Session,_ which she shares on Instagram / [Milky Tran](https://www.instagram.com/milkytran/) _From Subway Takes to microdramas, short-form content is raking in views__—__and attention—at a rapid clip. But no two creators are building a short-form content business the same way. _ _So? We’re featuring several short-form creators in the coming weeks to understand their business, challenges, and biggest opportunities._ **Film creator **[Milky Tran](https://www.instagram.com/milkytran/?hl=en)** **got her start as a writer and director at Jubilee. She went viral shortly after she was laid off in 2024, and she’s been a full-time creator ever since, making scripted comedy shorts like [3 Adult Things](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DE-jgCGy_AT/?hl=en). **But to produce her new ensemble show, **[Next Session](https://www.instagram.com/nextsession.show/)**, Tran had a decision to make:** sign with a media brand like Fallen, Gymnasium, and American Picture Company (and their economies of scale) or go indie. Tran went indie.  **Here’s how it works →**  * **The show: **Episodes are like _Atlanta_ meets _Insecure_, spanning real-life moments like being [serenaded on a date](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DVCVXbdkhRC/)_ _to [surreal dreams](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DTnuU4SD2iG/) about life after death.  * **Production: **Tran writes, casts, and scouts locations herself. She films three episodes over two days for $4K–$7K, covering location, cast, crew, and editing. She funds production through brand deals on her main account, which she purposely keeps separate from the show. "Something that was so pure and that my audience really liked from me—I saw their attention shift because it was becoming my job too,” Tran said. * **Challenges: **Staying consistent—as writer, producer, director, and editor, Tran aims to upload once a week, but she’s found getting the footage polished and ready for upload in that time to be difficult. “The condensed timeline is what makes it intense, but I truly love the work,” Tran said.  **Looking ahead: **While Tran ultimately wants to write and direct her own movie, she finds the show rewarding. “I love connecting with people—with the team of passionate creatives I get to make it with and the audience that looks forward to it,” Tran said. “Seeing the impact of these short-a** stories reflected in the comments is a surreal experience.” View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: Sponsored by [Storyblocks](http://storyblocks.com/PublishPress) # Make Space to Tell Your Story View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/3781c51d-6f43-4634-9c26-6cf23a04ab2d/Storyblocks_PublishPress_1200x675.webp?t=1776095720) Follow image link: (http://storyblocks.com/PublishPress) Caption: Figuring out the narrative of your next video is tough enough. Hunting for assets or navigating their usage rights only makes it tougher. Fortunately, **Storyblocks** is built to get all those logistics out of your way, giving you an all-in-one creative toolkit to tell stronger stories through video. Move from concept to finished video faster. Enjoy access to millions of high-quality, human-made footage, music, and SFX assets all in one place. Work with customizable templates for Premiere Pro, After Effects, and DaVinci Resolve. Members save an average of 3.5 hours of work a week. Finally, avoid music and copyright claims on your content. Every asset on Storyblocks is royalty-free and prelicensed, so you can publish with confidence. **Press Readers, get 15% off any annual plan for a limited time only**. [Sign up and start telling better stories with Storyblocks today](http://storyblocks.com/PublishPress). View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Tennessee Rolls Out New Child Creator Laws View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/53e1ffb5-c50c-44a6-86d3-00fd2c91c825/0413_Article_Photo_3.png?t=1776095501) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Tennessee instates laws regarding children appearing in monetized online content / Photography by Tima Miroschnichenko / Pexels While US states including Nebraska and Indiana are [rolling back](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/mar/22/child-labor-protections-republicans) child labor regulations, Tennessee is going in the opposite direction. **The news: **Last week, TN [passed a bill](https://www.local3news.com/local-news/tn-bill-bans-content-creators-from-featuring-kids-under-14/article_07bfdbb2-4077-4e64-ae2e-c35ef0a54291.html) barring children under 14 from appearing in monetized online videos.  * Adults who violate the law could receive a $2,000 penalty.  * Kids 14–18 can be in monetized videos—but earnings must be put in a trust for them to access when they become adults. **Big picture: **Over the last 10 years, child labor violations have [risen fivefold](https://www.freedomunited.org/news/erosion-child-labor-protections-us/). But more than a dozen states have loosened child labor restrictions by extending working hours, lowering age thresholds, and reducing oversight for minors in the workforce. **Labor laws are more complicated for creator kids.** Most states (save for [California](https://www.usermag.co/p/no-family-vloggers-are-not-fleeing-california-over-a-child-labor-law-viral-tiktok-false) and [Colorado](https://www.9news.com/article/news/politics/colorado-bill-require-kidfluencer-earnings-trust-accounts/73-45b8ca3d-c097-43a9-a1a0-f0ee165107be)) have no laws governing children who earn income on social media—leaving young creators in a legal gray zone that traditional labor law was never built for. Could Tennessee’s bill help reverse the national tide? View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 👀 Creator Jobs * **Science YouTube channel What If** is hiring a Canada-based [showrunner](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2267642-showrunner-what-if-youtube-channel-underknown) to determine editorial direction for the channel. * **Mad Realities** is looking for a [pilot creative producer](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2272811-pilot-creative-producer-mad-realities) to develop and pitch concepts for original short-form shows. * **Airrack** is hiring an [associate producer](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2272810-associate-producer-airrack) to manage the production calendar and track video budget, payments, and expenses. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # ➕ Community Tab We’ve been cooking this year: hiring a [company president](https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7444725780930220033/), hosting [Press Publish LA](https://news.thepublishpress.com/press-publish-la), earning a [Webby nom](https://vote.webbyawards.com/PublicVoting?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGn_4h6rVpNMAxg29dat8XuU_4u9stzKsRzrVDon9jucc8grJac4-eM-ea4R1U_aem_Y9NJW-XrOTiij7X72VgX_w#/2026/creators/creator-business/newsletter-or-written-series). And now? **The return of our favorite community series, Coffee With Creators.** **Save the date: ****Friday, April 24**. We’re bringing back Coffee With Creators on a monthly basis at The Lighthouse LA.  Consider it a standing hang with your favorite creators to learn from each other, meet potential collaborators, and end the month strong. For free, as always—hope to see you there. Sign up here (https://luma.com/9yph09js) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [IShowSpeed](https://variety.com/2026/tv/news/ishowspeed-anime-series-one-piece-matt-owens-brian-robbins-1236710649/) is starring in an anime made by the producers from _One Piece_. * [The Amazing Digital Circus](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AjFk1cY265I) is airing its finale across theaters in the US, Canada, Latin America, and Japan. * [Instagram](https://x.com/instagram/status/2042275056592527762?s=46&t=sVvVqfqtrpFRLF39Bfwg9w) creators and users can now edit comments. * [YouTube Premium](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/digital/youtube-hikes-prices-youtube-premium-music-1236561098/) is increasing in price by $2 per month. * [Comedian Mark Normand](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mRJJZYQt41Q) starts a YouTube show, _Human Trials_, putting stand-ups in front of specific groups like bald men and Gen-Z women. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/wall-street-blocks-khaby-lame

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/9d8b59fb-f264-4dab-83df-d25034bb92db/0410_Header_No_Sponsor.png?t=1775837948) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning. **Today, NASA’s Artemis II mission is set to return to Earth after an historic 10-day trip around the moon that marked the furthest distance humans have ever been from our planet. It’s not hyperbolic to say it’s one transcendent, giant leap for humankind. P.S. ICYMI, we’re nominated for a Webby. Voting closes next week and we’d love your support. [Vote here](https://vote.webbyawards.com/PublicVoting?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGn0W_t0A27RLa2mfo-7DmGK7P4kO0yb0k59F3tNKRYMYTI5CL0pYegVMeP7qA_aem_7AnHd5_QlkHxwtX9h8VuCg#/2026/creators/creator-business/newsletter-or-written-series). — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: **Today’s lineup:** 1. Syracuse launches the first creator economy minor 2. Basketball creators ink NBA partnership 3. A creator sells $1 million in products in five minutes View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Inside the First Creator Economy Center in Higher Education View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/0d05b0c6-c8c7-4d23-a8f1-88d3fc498fa3/0410_Article_Photo_1__1_.png?t=1775838234) Caption: Syracuse University debuts its Center for the Creator Economy with a live podcast taping featuring (from left) Scalable Podcast host Jasmine Enberg, Proud Management founder Michael Curtis, Theorist co-founder Stephanie Patrick, and fashion creator Nick Urteaga / Photography by Rich Prugh In an industry where some of the biggest stars—MrBeast, Ryan Trahan, Markiplier—are all college dropouts…what’s the value of getting your college minor in the creator economy? **Hannah here.** On Wednesday, I set out to answer that question at the launch party of **Syracuse University's Center for the Creator Economy** at its LA satellite campus.  **Quick context:** * Syracuse is the first US university to open a creator economy center and offer a minor in the creator economy (a collab between its business and communications schools).  * Elsewhere, [USC](https://catalogue.usc.edu/preview_course_nopop.php?catoid=21&coid=334257) and [UCLA](https://www.tft.ucla.edu/course/content-creation-scriptwriting-summer-institute/) have introduced creator-focused courses and schools like Northwestern have woven [influencer marketing](https://www6.kellogg.northwestern.edu/CourseCatalog/coursecatalog/coursedetail?coursecatalogid=207490) into their communications curricula. * Wednesday’s event was full of Syracuse alumni, talent managers, finance advisors, and faculty, ft. a live podcast taping with creators like Theorist cofounder [Stephanie Patrick](https://www.instagram.com/cordypatrick/) and fashion creator [Nick Urteaga](https://www.instagram.com/nickurteaga/). **So what might make a minor in the creator economy worth it? **Here’s what I found out: **The minor isn’t about fostering on-camera talent.** It’s open to all majors and designed for operators—designers, producers, and managers who need grounding in finance, accounting, and contract law to run a creator business.  "If I see two resumes and one has that minor, and that person ends up being the more qualified candidate—that's the proof point," Patrick told me. **The program will pull in experts,** ready to consult on algorithms and trends—and how to build longevity in a creator business. "Unlike broadcast TV, when a creator leaves their channel, it stops. You have to set a pace you can do forever,” Patrick said. **The best case scenario?** These courses prep students on the legal, accounting, business, and platform know-how to prevent creators from falling into the trap of gaining followers, but burning out or not making money. “It’s not about preparing students to adapt to a changing industry, it’s giving them a firm foundation to avoid the pitfalls,” Patrick said. And as the definition of what’s the _creator economy_ and what’s just the _economy_ blur—after all, every modern business needs to nail foundations of creator work like making content online or understanding an audience—a degree in the creator industry might become the next business or comms major. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Enjoy Basketball Inks Multi-Platform NBA Partnership View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/66e2bdac-921b-47e3-823f-b25e3fd298d6/0410_Article_Photo_2__1_.png?t=1775838435) Caption: Kenny Beecham (left) will host _Enjoy the NBA Trivia Show,_ a collaboration between Enjoy Basketball and the NBA / [Kenny For Real](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ARx02mbJdeo), [NBA](https://www.nba.com/news/enjoy-basketball-partners-with-nba-trivia-show-kenny-beecham) Ahead of the NBA Finals in June, [Enjoy Basketball](https://www.instagram.com/enjoybball/), founded by basketball commentary creator Kenny Beecham and Cody and Cole Hock, just signed [a partnership](https://www.nba.com/news/enjoy-basketball-partners-with-nba-trivia-show-kenny-beecham) with the NBA to bring Enjoy’s content to the NBA’s platforms. **The fine print →** * Beecham will host content on both YouTube and TV, making an original _Enjoy the NBA Trivia Show_ that will air on NBA’s app, NBA TV, and Enjoy’s YouTube channels.  * Enjoy talent will appear on the NBA’s flagship TV show, _The Association. _ * Both Enjoy and the NBA will post clips from the shows to their respective social channels.  **Big picture: **The NBA has become one of the most creator-friendly sports leagues—working with everyone from [Jesser](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u3vk-4zLEfA) to Druski, generating $1.6B in team [sponsorship revenue](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/luizfgiacomelli_nba-report-ugcPost-7374040491878780929-p5VJ/), and offering creators [more freedom](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y4jNqBJhfKM) with footage than leagues like the NFL. For reference, the NBA has 90 million Instagram followers to the NFL's 30 million.  **Behind the tie-in: **"We don't need to be the biggest. We understand our mission, we understand our community, and as long as we're serving our fans collectively—that's success,” Cody told us. * **Worth noting: **This NBA partnership follows a recent deal between Enjoy and NBC that brings the channel’s podcasts to NBC’s streaming platforms.  * “We kind of started positioning ourselves as Switzerland. We make peace with everyone," Cody said. **The sports creator advantage: **Sports creators don’t have to choose between broadcasters and leagues—they can partner with the NBA _and_ NBC simultaneously, like Enjoy has. This, paired with their unique voices and built-in distribution, can make creators and channels attractive partners as sports media evolves on new platforms and works to reach new audiences. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Creator Business Roundup: The Podcast Selling Mid-Rolls for $4 Million View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/cd675370-f122-47c2-8c48-57c18e45597b/0410_Article_Photo_3__1_.png?t=1775838544) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: (Left to right) Alix Earle generated $1 million in revenue from Reale Actives, David Rosenthal and David Gilbert host the _Acquired_ podcast, and podcast creators earn on Patreon / [Reale Actives](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DWZGOLVgFpN/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==), [Acquired](https://www.instagram.com/p/DML4Fw6SQoa/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==), [Patreon](https://news.patreon.com/articles/Patreon%20Transparency%20Report%202026) Want to hear three creator business numbers from this week that’ll make you double take? We’ve got you covered → **$1 million →** how much revenue Alix Earle generated in the first _five minutes_ of launching her skincare brand, Reale Actives, according [to ](https://puck.news/how-alix-earle-became-beautys-biggest-new-founder/?utm_source=scalablepod.com&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=buying-vs-earning-influence&_bhlid=19760f0613e78d577a76343fbe6c3fc767f780e8)_[Puck](https://puck.news/how-alix-earle-became-beautys-biggest-new-founder/?utm_source=scalablepod.com&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=buying-vs-earning-influence&_bhlid=19760f0613e78d577a76343fbe6c3fc767f780e8)_. Earle teased the launch with creators for a week prior, gaining around 400K followers to Reale Active’s Instagram. **$4 million →** the cost of mid-roll ads for longform business podcast _Acquired_, according to tech analyst [Evan Armstrong](https://x.com/itsurboyevan/status/2041964541500600370?s=20). The podcast recently rebranded and relaunched its website. **$629 million →** how much podcast creators earned on Patreon last year, up 33% from 2024. That’s spread among 47K creators, though some of that may be concentrated at the top: Hip hop commentary creator Joe Budden makes $1 million per month from subscribers, and Ludwig’s _The Yard _earns [over $200K](https://graphtreon.com/creator/theyard) per month. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Instagram creators](https://www.instagram.com/p/DWyhjRhEZ2i/?img_index=1) can now earn commission from tagged products in Reels. * [Issa Rae](https://www.thewrap.com/creative-content/tv-shows/issa-rae-microdrama-screen-time-tiktok-partnership-pinedrama/) partners with TikTok to produce an exclusive microdrama with the platform. * [Keith Lee](https://www.wwltv.com/article/entertainment/events/festivals/keith-lee-waives-food-vendor-fees-for-inaugural-famileeday-festival/289-71b970d4-034c-4e97-a2fc-62832d6e1978) is running a food festival and waving vendor fees for local businesses. * [Comedian Gianmaro Soresi](https://variety.com/2026/digital/news/gianmarco-soresi-the-downside-podcast-vox-media-1236706196/) is bringing his podcast _The Downside_ to Vox Media’s podcast network. * [Hubspot](http://youtube.com/post/UgkxReXZ6LaeNyk4UtIMDfRkrhBJ8mkN1AVB?si=zkCt2HHUqEnJC4DL) acquires AI education YouTube channel Futurepedia. * [Adam W](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/stic-appoints-adam-w-as-chief-digital-officer-to-power-creator-led-growth-and-redefine-out-of-home-advertising-302735082.html). becomes the chief digital officer of out-of-home advertising brand Stic. * [MMA creator Shane Fazen](https://www.instagram.com/p/DWwXg73kX7C/) is deleting his Instagram to focus solely on YouTube. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 📚️ Thank You For Pressing Publish _The content we’re looking forward to reading, watching, and listening to this weekend._ * **Read:** Political writer and creator [Grace Weinstein](https://whobrokeit.substack.com/p/new-tiktok-subculture-nuclear-fallout?utm_source=%2Finbox&utm_medium=reader2) investigates the nuclear doomsday prepper community on TikTok. * **Watch:** Pedal and Paint [returns](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Der5T-Mm1Sg) from a year-long hiatus to draw the hills of Briones Regional Park in California. * **Listen:** Coachella may be the creator fashion Olympics, but we’re studying a competition of another kind this weekend: The Masters. Random Golf Club explains [the economics and lore](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZgACDR1Urg&t=453s) behind the historic golf tournament. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/reading-writing-and-youtube-analytics

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/d591b405-cf3e-4297-8e3f-0bd280c1795b/0408_Header_No_Sponsor.png?t=1775670187) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning. **Quiet on set. We’re excited to finally [announce the venue](https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.instagram.com/reel/DW4FkfFCVaY/?utm_source%3Dig_web_copy_link%26igsh%3DMzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1775674640394545&usg=AOvVaw2uDN4np9XQ7zOxduBiMJOc) for Press Publish LA: The Hollywood Creator Summit. We’ll be meeting at **the FOX Studio Lot**, the very place where movies like _Titanic_, _Avatar_, and _Die Hard_ were made. If this is a space you want to be in, please consider joining us 👇 Apply Here (https://news.thepublishpress.com/press-publish-la) — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: **Today’s lineup:** 1. A travel creator shares his Facebook revenue 2. What it takes to edit a daily vlog series for a top streamer  3. YouTube releases its own FAST channels View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # How One Travel Creator Makes $50K/Month on Facebook View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/1c1c17a0-359a-4784-8948-28f95642969f/0408_Article_Photo_1.png?t=1775670308) Caption: Drew Binsky (left) grows on Facebook by posting 10x per day / [Drew Binsky](https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1500508961431318&set=pb.100044166862968.-2207520000&type=3) Travel creator [Drew Binsky](https://www.youtube.com/@drewbinsky/videos) makes around $50K per month on Facebook alone—but Binsky told us he doesn’t even have the app downloaded on his phone. **So how’s he doing it?** **Catch up quick:**  * Binsky started making [international](https://www.facebook.com/reel/4315237022081884) [travel](https://www.facebook.com/reel/1254358656599541) content exclusively on Facebook in 2017 and was one of the first creators in the platform’s beta monetization program, which awards creators revenue based on [audience engagement](https://creators.facebook.com/earn-money/expand-your-opportunities-to-earn).  * He joined YouTube nearly two years later and now posts long-form travel documentaries there. Binsky said YouTube is now his primary platform for video ideation and earnings.  * Still: Facebook viewers make up 48% of Binsky’s 17 million followers. His audience skews older, which Binsky says is necessary for Facebook growth. “We were able to scale from $5-10K a month about three years ago to a stable $50K a month the past year or so,” Binsky’s content manager Anete Ilmete told us via email. “Some months it still fluctuates, so it can be anywhere between $35K-100K a month.” **So what makes Facebook work?** Binsky has been able to grow his revenue by playing the numbers game.  * He uses a team of 30 Philippines-based editors, writers, and researchers to cut YouTube videos and make compilations for Facebook. With their help, Binsky can post 10x per day on Facebook. * And volume is key on the platform: Binsky says Facebook views can be fickle, meaning less consistent income. “YouTube is really consistent and you know what you're getting into,” Binsky told us. “But Facebook algorithms change week to week and what's working now won't work next month.” **What this means for creators:** Success on Facebook may be as much about content style as it is about volume. While some creators like [Dhar Mann](https://www.theinformation.com/newsletters/creator-economy/dizzying-rise-dhar-mann) and magician [Justin Flom](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/nike-signs-first-twitch-streamer) have also found success on Facebook, it can be harder for creators in different niches to scale monetization on the platform.  For example, after a 40-day experiment on Facebook, Colin and Samir gained 20K followers and 207K views—but only made $3.68 in revenue. Why? Their niche doesn’t have an audience on Facebook. Meta is trying to rectify creator concerns by offering incentives like its [Fast Track](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/this-1-podcast-is-ai-generated) program, which pays large creators from other platforms a stipend to post on Facebook—a feature that 54% of you told us would entice you to post more. But with shifty algorithms and inconsistent payouts, will it be enough? View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Inside Ludwig and Michael Reeves’ ‘Tip to Tip’ Series View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/4c7affd0-fa45-4dde-bb7c-551ecf402c6b/0408_Article_Photo_2.png?t=1775670434) Caption: Michael Reeves (left) and Ludwig Ahgren (second from left) post daily from their motorcycle trip across China with a team that travels alongside them (right) / [Ludwig](https://x.com/LudwigAhgren/status/2041663815851626525?s=20) [Ahgren](https://x.com/LudwigAhgren/status/2035152763563516110?s=20) Last year, Ludwig Ahgren and Michael Reeves ran a "[Tip to Tip](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QQTujE5qb_U)" YouTube series, where they vlogged daily as they traveled the length of Japan with no map or phone. To make that happen, they hired an editor to follow them in a van. The result? **Over 28 million views across 14 episodes**, but a strained workflow.  This year, they upped the ante with [Tip to Tip China](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QmhskSqnWa8&t=11s), a country more than double Japan’s size—and adjusted their strategy. **Here's how they pulled off 16 daily vlogs across China ** → **The setup:** Ahgren’s team split between remote US editors, Mandarin translators for subtitling, and a four-person RV (two producers and two editors) following him and Reeves through China. They worked on 4-5 episodes at any given time, operating on a multi-day lead between filming and posting: 1. Two US-based editors sync 5-8 hours of footage across multiple cameras and cut it down to about 2.5 hours. 2. One of the mobile editors creates a storyline, trimming the video down to about an hour. 3. Another mobile editor makes graphics and puts finishing touches on the episode before posting. “A lot of what we’re doing is watching what they're doing, knowing their habits that they've done before, and trying to guess what they're going to do and where they're going to go,” producer Dan Najarian said in a [behind-the-scenes vlog](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vb8ALTmd_Cw&t=677s). **Learning from last year’s mistakes:** During Tip-to-Tip Japan, Ahgren started with one mobile editor, adding more after footage came in faster than one person could edit. This year, they were more prepared to tackle the longer journey with increased staff numbers. **Trend watch:** Large-scale vlog series have become increasingly popular among creators like [IShowSpeed](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/bts-of-will-smith-s-creator-car-wash) and [Ryan Trahan](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/the-ryan-trahan-effect-46e6a91eaf0c5fea), who have each uploaded in 30-day and 50-day increments in different countries. As more creators hop on the wave, many are building in-house teams to accommodate the new genre. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # YouTube Launches FAST Channels View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/39e3fbb6-3183-435c-85e2-90bf176e370a/0408_Article_Photo_3.png?t=1775670633) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: YouTube tests its Stations feature with artist channels like Bruno Mars / [Bruno Mars](https://www.youtube.com/live/4J41KdZ3JR8?si=NpyfqwiUhu1vgzty) In step with its Coachella livestreams this weekend, YouTube is premiering artist Stations—its [own version](https://www.theverge.com/column/905787/youtube-stations) of FAST channels with 24/7, ad-supported linear streams playing preprogrammed videos. **Context: **Creators including Mark Rober, Nick Digiovanni, Dude Perfect, and more have inked FAST channel partnerships with brands like Roku, Samsung, and Tubi. YouTube is now entering the arena, first [testing the feature](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4J41KdZ3JR8) with music artists like Bruno Mars, with plans to open up the feature to all creators.  **Worth noting: **Some creators have been utilizing YouTube’s Live feature to set up their own broadcast, such as _Curious George_ playing videos [on loop](https://www.youtube.com/@CuriousGeorge/streams). Those feeds require separate software. Stations will be easier to set up, where creators can create a playlist of existing catalog videos. Stations comes on the heels of other new TV features, [including Ask](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/kwilms_the-youtube-living-room-experience-just-got-share-7445872335355789312-L8Rg/), where viewers can use their remote microphone to ask questions about videos while it's playing. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [MLB](https://toybook.com/mlb-cubhouse-youtube-launch/) partners with _Tiny Chef_ creator Adam Reid to launch a kids’ YouTube channel, _MLB Clubhouse_. * [PrestonGoes](https://youtu.be/Rb17e-Z8qHM?si=ke7RI3SSux75FOI4) is hosting a premiere for his next YouTube video in LA on Friday. * [Minecraft and Twitch](https://blog.twitch.tv/en/2026/04/06/minecrafts-tiny-takeover/) are partnering to give affiliates and partners $1K for streaming Minecraft through the end of today. * [Kids YouTube media company Moonbug](https://variety.com/2026/tv/news/cocomelon-child-development-research-ucla-1236710324/) is partnering with UCLA’s Center for Scholars and Storytellers to bring child development research into its kids content.  * [Golf creators Grant Horvat and Bryson DeChambeau](https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2026/04/06/dechambeau-horvat-part-of-new-youtube-golf-network/) join aggregate YouTube media network Source Golf. * [News creators Johnny Harris and Jorge Ramos](https://variety.com/2026/tv/news/news-documentary-emmy-awards-2026-nominations-list-1236709986/) are nominated for an Emmy. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/inside-a-travel-creator-s-facebook-earnings

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/db770b4e-db88-4124-808a-427427823495/0406_Header.png?t=1775490854) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning.** Yesterday, Sean Evans announced that K-pop boy band BTS will be this week’s _Hot Ones_ guests. We see two options: the wings either go down “smooth like butter” or the episode will be explosive like dynamite. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: **Today’s lineup:** 1. MrBeast reaches 1M viewers on his livestream 2. How an animation channel funds production through live events 3. Technoblade’s father launches a new channel View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Inside MrBeast’s 1M-Viewer Livestream View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/faff73d5-67e8-4f19-9548-9554376d504a/0406_Article_Photo_1.png?t=1775490915) Caption: (Left to right) YourRAGE, Rakai, MrBeast, Rubius, and Ski Mask draw in over one million concurrent viewers on MrBeast's livestream on Sunday / [MrBeast](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F3fmzCmIJ14&t=2s) What is the sum of 50 top streamers, a three-hour livestream, and $1.5 million in giveaway cash? If you thought **one million concurrent viewers **on Jimmy “MrBeast” Donaldson’s latest livestream, you’d be correct. **The details:**  * On Saturday, Donaldson uploaded a _Beast Games_-style [YouTube video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXVHmGoCTco) where streamers including Pokimane, Ludwig, and Fanum competed to win $1 million to give away to followers. Games included a Fortnite match and physical challenges like “floor is lava.” * The four finalists—YourRAGE, Rakai, Ski Mask, and Rubius—participated in a [livestream](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F3fmzCmIJ14) the following day, where YourRAGE won the grand prize.  * The viewership peaked at 1.1 million viewers, and traffic was so high that it broke chat, poll, and clipping functions on the livestream. After YourRAGE’s victory, he started a livestream on his own channel, where over [200K viewers](https://x.com/pubity/status/2040870247377293515?s=20) tuned in—nearly double his previous viewership record. He gave $150K to his Twitch moderators, with the rest going to random viewers. **Zoom out: **This was MrBeast’s highest-viewed stream since his [100 million subscriber](https://x.com/MrBeast/status/1552735248026411010?s=20) special in 2022, and one of the highest-viewed livestreams by a single creator on YouTube. Spanish streamer Ibai currently holds the record for most concurrent viewers, at [9 million](https://twitchtracker.com/channels/peak-viewers). For reference, NASA’s Artemis II launch received [4 million concurrent](https://streamscharts.com/news/artemis-ii-lanch-becomes-top-tier-streaming-event-reaching-10-million-live-viewers) viewers on YouTube last week. **How we see it:** Livestreaming, from [niche-casting](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/why-openai-bought-a-tech-live-show) to [multi-city tours](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9s6imDGjy08), is growing in popularity. Why the boom now? Some [strategists note](https://x.com/ashnichrist/status/2040813748726780103?s=20) that as AI content grows on platforms, live streaming is where creators are building trust. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # YouTube Channel Brings its 15-Year Show to Theaters View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/b1320123-3b52-4d79-8c53-692cdfabef12/0406_Article_Photo_2.png?t=1775490977) Caption: To celebrate 15 years on YouTube, Creator Adam Katz (left) announces episodes from his channel AnimationEpic debuting in theaters / [Animation](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DWrrPllEhAC/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==)[Epic](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xFhscRpS6UM) Animated YouTube channel [AnimationEpic](https://www.youtube.com/@AnimationEpic/featured) celebrated 15 years last week with Inanimate Insanity, a nationwide [theatrical event](https://www.instagram.com/p/DWrrPllEhAC/) debuting [new episodes](https://inanimateinsanity.com/) for fans across 40+ Regal Cinemas. The celebration was part of a greater IRL strategy, where events account for more than 50% of the channels’ revenue. We talked to AnimationEpic creator, Adam Katz, to hear how he built a channel around showing up in person. **How he got here→** * Katz started the channel as a passion project when he was 14, slowly growing to 900K YouTube subscribers and over 400 million channel views making long-form animated comedy. * Katz went full-time on the channel two years ago, leaving his job as a TV production manager to go all-in on AnimationEpic. * Now the business has six core team members, including series director Brian Koch, with 50-100 freelancers working on each episode.  **But Katz didn’t just build online, he took it on the road.** For the past eight years, AnimationEpic has partnered with animators Jacknjellify, the creators of YouTube channel [BFDI](https://www.youtube.com/@BFDI), on live events. Since 2024, they’ve gone on a nationwide tour, which has grown to make up 60% of AnimationEpic’s revenue, with merch and AdSense making up the rest. Last year's tour drew 25,000 attendees across six cities.  **The format is intentionally simple: **unreleased episode screenings, live Q+A, meet and greet. No elaborate sets, which keeps production costs low and tickets at $40 per person.    It works, Katz says, because long-form content builds the kind of devotion that translates offline. "The only way you're going to buy a figure of [a show] or go to a live event is because you care enough. And the only way to care enough is to watch hours of it.” **Big picture: **As Hollywood [struggles to greenlight](https://luminatedata.com/blog/whats-driving-the-animated-tv-series-falloff/) animated TV series, creators like Katz are quietly building the infrastructure the industry says it wants: devoted fans and live experiences. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Technoblade’s Universe Expands with New Channel View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/05e79a23-4c05-4006-a880-69ca8b331618/0406_Article_Photo_3.png?t=1775491083) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Technodad (right) announces Team Technoblade, a channel for new content commemorating his late son, Technoblade (left) / [Team Technoblade](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2J4rEkwA7gQ) Last week, Technodad—father to the late Minecraft YouTuber [Technoblade](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFAiFyGs6oDiF1Nf-rRJpZA)—launched [Team Technoblade](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaWivG6OCoPeKZ2aP3D6ffQ), a new channel devoted to unreleased videos, memes, and showcasing fan art. The channel hit 300K subscribers in the first four days since launch. “This gives us a place to share new Technoblade content, while keeping his main channel a mostly untouched historical record,” Technodad said in the [announcement video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2J4rEkwA7gQ). **Inside the community:** When Technoblade passed in 2022, his YouTube channel had 10 million subscribers, a number that has [more than doubled](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/this-creator-convention-sold-29-000-tickets-1193) since. His Discord server and subreddit have over 180K active users combined, where community members share [memories](https://www.reddit.com/r/Technoblade/comments/1sagd2k/remembering_technoblade/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web3x&utm_name=web3xcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button) and [fan art](https://www.reddit.com/r/Technoblade/comments/1scsrt5/did_this/).   **Lasting impact:** There are certain creators who have had significant influence on their niches—like Emma Chamberlain’s signature [vlog style](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CWgs97shAH0) or MKBHD’s [tech reviews](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8FpPSMIB4uA). Over the past four years, Technoblade’s Minecraft community has not only honored the legacy he built, but actively worked to expand it.  View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 👀 Creator Jobs * **Dude Perfect** is hiring a [video editor](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2267548-editor) with an understanding of long-form YouTube pacing. Must be based near Frisco, Texas or willing to relocate. * **Substack** is looking for a [creator marketing campaign strategist](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2267600-campaign-strategist-creator-marketing) with 4–6 years of creator economy experience. * **Almost Friday** is hiring a [junior video editor](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2267605-junior-video-editorproducer-sports-almost-friday-media) to work on its sports content team. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Khaby Lame](https://www.olympics.com/en/news/who-is-khaby-lame-new-dakar-2026-ambassador) is an ambassador for the 2026 Youth Olympics, held in his home country of Senegal. * [VFX creator Captain Disillusion](https://variety.com/2026/digital/news/captain-disillusion-youtube-videos-nebula-new-shows-1236706158/) secures a first-look deal with creator-owned streaming platform Nebula. * [LeBron James](https://youtu.be/1-TBB3y88QQ?si=I48-RSda_55D--7v) appears on Bob Does Sports’ YouTube channel. * [Alix Earle](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ygEadkdkynQ) releases BTS footage from the last two years developing her skincare brand, Reale Actives. * [YouTube creators](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IlwwMwCHcVs) can now like video comments in bulk. * [Ireland](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-04-03/ireland-tests-digital-id-to-verify-age-of-social-media-users) tests digital age verification for social media. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/why-1m-people-watched-mrbeast-s-livestream

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/aebdc61f-3aaa-4bf7-9763-2cb58f615bc3/0403_Header_No_Sponsor-2.png?t=1775237164) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning.** We’re honored to announce that we’ve been nominated for our first Webby. [Voting is open](https://vote.webbyawards.com/PublicVoting#/2026/creators/creator-business/newsletter-or-written-series) until April 16, and we would really appreciate it if you take 30 seconds to support us. Thanks again for tuning in every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. We couldn’t do it without you. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: **Today’s lineup:** 1) OpenAI acquires tech livestream TBPN 2) Mythical Kitchen shares how they make _Last Meals_ 3) One microdrama studio seeks to revamp the genre View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Inside OpenAI’s TBPN Acquisition View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/e8df08ae-2ebb-4adf-8b70-ec3782fc79a3/0403_Article_Photo_1.png?t=1775234034) Caption: OpenAI buys TBPN, the tech and business podcast hosted by Jordi Hays (left) and John Coogan (right) / [Open AI](https://openai.com/index/openai-acquires-tbpn/) Earlier this year, daily tech news show TBPN, hosted by business creators [John Coogan](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacoogan/) and [Jordi Hays](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordi-hays-559199113/), [anticipated](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/this-film-festival-is-changing-for-creators) reading 5,000 ads in 2026—making $30 million in ad revenue this year. Now, that number is 0.  Yesterday, OpenAI [announced](https://openai.com/index/openai-acquires-tbpn/) that it [bought TBPN](https://www.ft.com/content/4fe4972a-3d24-45be-b9fa-a429c432b08e?syn-25a6b1a6=1) for “low hundreds of millions of dollars”—effectively shuttering its ad business and ushering in a new era for the tech show. **How they got here: **Coogan and Hays started [TBPN](https://www.tbpn.com/) 17 months ago, generating [$5 million](https://www.wired.com/story/openai-acquires-tbpn-buys-positive-news-coverage/) in ad revenue in 2025 from their three-hour daily livestream.  TBPN has only 62K YouTube subscribers and 324K followers on X, made up of tech professionals from startup CEOs to software engineers. Our own Samir Chaudry describes TBPN as the "[luxury brand](https://x.com/ColinandSamir/status/2017047973553983712) of the creator economy," a small but influential audience with high-purchasing-power.  TBPN has a cool factor too—selling [merch](https://x.com/EricJorgenson/status/2040054230430462423) with ad logos like an F1 team, and packaging business announcements like [trading cards](https://x.com/tbpn/status/2036889780144005161). Guests include [Mark Zuckerberg](https://x.com/tbpn/status/1968504547917328494?s=20), [Mark Cuban](https://x.com/tbpn/status/1958558975915622706?s=20), and OpenAI founder Sam Altman. **Worth noting:** The OpenAI connection runs deep → * Altman invested in Coogan’s first company in 2013, and served as Y Combinator president while Coogan was in the incubator program. * In 2022, Coogan worked on ChatGPT's first funding round as Entrepreneur in Residence at Founders Fund. **Going forward:** TBPN's daily format isn't changing. Coogan and Hays say they have full editorial independence but will no longer run ads—instead spotlighting exclusive OpenAI news.  [Some](https://x.com/_simonsmith/status/2039773852289364336?s=20) have [questioned](https://x.com/neerajberry/status/2039765216863617177?s=20) what this means for editorial integrity, though Hays and Coogan don’t see themselves as journalists. “Even when companies have approached us and said, ‘We’ll give you the exclusive,’ [...] we actually want [them] to go talk to the journalists,” Hays said [on stream](https://www.youtube.com/live/V78F9fA8Viw?si=yRNL1oyTZYCIUxzo&t=578). “And then come contextualize it with us,” Coogan added. “They are marketing geniuses, and I’d love to have better marketing,” Altman [told Axios](https://x.com/axios/status/2039838374710710458?s=46). **Big picture:** OpenAI recently [shut down Sora](https://variety.com/2026/digital/news/openai-shutting-down-sora-video-disney-1236698277/), its AI video generator, subsequently ending its billion dollar deal with Disney. But OpenAI is still growing exponentially—[raising $122 billion](https://openai.com/index/accelerating-the-next-phase-ai/) in its latest funding round. So what’s the draw of buying a creator company? Potentially, good faith with the tech community. Other tech companies have purchased media outlets in the past, like Robinhood buying Snacks Daily and Hubspot buying The Hustle. In the face of Anthropic’s [cheeky Super Bowl ads](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=De-_wQpKw0s), is this OpenAI’s way of repositioning its brand image? View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # How Mythical Makes ‘Last Meals’ View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a7fa77bf-1d62-42d3-8c94-b408d5a8f13b/0403_Article_Photo_2b.png?t=1775234079) Caption: Josh Scherer hosts over 100 episodes of Mythical Kitchen's _Last Meals _/ [Mythical Kitchen](https://youtu.be/5diMuiDQ2Wo?si=Uo992nRop0EWAV56) Last week [Mythical Kitchen](https://www.youtube.com/@mythicalkitchen) released its 100th episode of _Last Meals_, its YouTube show interviewing celebrities and creators on the food they'd eat before they die. Over its four years, the show has become the channel's most-viewed [series](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vWdEfGsgMjQ&list=PLW8XZTagL0oIeIGbZTUD_9JzlwJw5c_S0) (200M+ views) and a staple in the celebrity press cycle, featuring guests like [Tom Hanks](https://youtu.be/xxSyov0Hjz8?si=22M966dRfNVXzfBY) and [Post Malone](https://youtu.be/ciktYlmFbfc?si=FXeFTeOS6XLK0aTQ).  But before all the talk about mortality and dishes like pistachio pie and Karaage chicken, there's 15 people and weeks of work that go into each hour-long episode. We talked to host [Josh Scherer](https://www.instagram.com/mythicalchefjosh/) and creative producer [Annaliese Kassebaum](https://www.instagram.com/annaliesekassebaum/) on how it's made → _**Last Meals**_**, a recipe:** 1. **Book a guest** → Once booked, Scherer begins researching, reading books, listening to interviews, and diving into local media. Shoot days are set two weeks out; talent submits a menu at least one week before. 2. **Secure ingredients** → Chefs shop, practice tricky recipes, and ship in any restaurant requests. The day before, everything is prepped, portioned, and labeled. 3. **Showtime **→ On shoot day, 15 staff are on set—five culinary team members, three-four camera operators, a director, a sound mixer, and producers. Interview questions are printed on cards, though Scherer aims to commit them to memory. Why does the team go to such lengths—tracking down [family recipes](https://youtu.be/_ugOPkkWMTw?si=MYZqpnkBCNJ7d01J), grilling whole fish [on set](https://youtu.be/xEhk5iOQnmg?si=Wxe64Dr-BfR7L7hs), recreating three-Michelin-star plating routines—when the viewer can’t taste it? Kassebaum says it’s all part of guest experience—and if the guests like being there, that results in a better show.  “I think that’s what continues to separate YouTube from other media,” Kassebaum said. “The earnestness is the sauce. The joy in the process does come through.” **For the next 100 episodes,** Scherer is more interested in perfecting the show than scaling it. "If you build a bar with your friends and you enjoy showing up to work every single day, you don't have to immediately think about how to franchise it," Scherer said. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Can This Studio Clean Up Microdramas’ Soap-y Image? View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a83b53d7-74b6-4d63-bb18-ef7653d35842/0403_Article_Photo_3.png?t=1775234199) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Chris Crema (left) and Matthew Ko (right) launch microdrama studio Knockout Shorts / [Knockout Shorts](https://www.instagram.com/p/DTO4MAKlHza/) Microdramas are growing into a [$26 billion industry](https://variety.com/2025/tv/news/global-microdrama-boom-1236560947/), with platforms like ReelShort and MyDrama skyrocketing in popularity. Now, producers from the creator world are teaming up with Hollywood to build out the genre.  Producers [Matthew Ko](https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-ko-954a661a1/) and [Chris Crema](https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-crema-4ab2b4191/)—who’ve worked with companies like A24 and Unwell—recently launched **Knockout Shorts**, a microdrama studio producing drama, [comedy](https://www.instagram.com/p/DWSbhKrCaCf/), and reality series.  Its goal? Elevate microdramas beyond soap operas to include more genres, hire Hollywood and creator talent, and reach a younger demographic. “It's a very high volume business and low cost, so some companies are producing 300 of these a year. They're really focused on just getting the content as fast as possible,” Ko told us. “When working with [SAG-AFTRA] on our most recent project, it elevates those standards—which we’re really excited about.” **Zoom out:** Ko describes the average microdrama user as a middle aged woman with expendable income, but if microdrama studios want to sustain their longevity, they may have to think broader. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Newsletter platform beehiiv](https://variety.com/2026/digital/news/beehiiv-podcast-hosting-shows-1236705198/) launches podcast hosting and distribution. * [Pokimane](https://www.tiktok.com/@poki/video/7623555428156214541?embed_source=121374463%2C121468991%2C121439635%2C121749182%2C121433650%2C121404359%2C121497414%2C122221973%2C122122240%2C121351166%2C121811500%2C121960941%2C122122244%2C122122243%2C122122242%2C121487028%2C121679410%2C122258714%2C121331973%2C120811592%2C120810756%2C121885509%3Bnull%3Bembed_name&refer=embed&referer_url=&referer_video_id=7623555428156214541) shares business lessons she learned from Myna cookies, clothing company Cloak, and getting a six-figure exit from management company RTS. * [John Chungus](https://www.instagram.com/p/DWpA_M4ESDT/) is launching an interview show produced by Anthpo’s creative studio, Pufferfish. * [200 organizations including the ](https://www.tubefilter.com/2026/04/01/youtube-fairplay-kids-ai-open-letter/)[American Counseling Association](https://www.tubefilter.com/2026/04/01/youtube-fairplay-kids-ai-open-letter/) write an open letter to YouTube to stop pushing AI slop to children. * [Try Guys](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a0B4g6V4V9c) release a murder mystery series, _Killer Dinner_. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 📚️ Thank You for Pressing Publish _The content we’re looking forward to reading, watching, and listening to this weekend._ * **Read:** Podcaster and singer-songwriter Eliza McLamb unpacks [Chaotic Good](https://www.wordsfromeliza.com/p/fake-fans?utm_campaign=post-expanded-share&utm_medium=web&triedRedirect=true)—the digital marketing agency fabricating hundreds of fan accounts for popular musicians. * **Watch:** Vox video co-founder Joe Posner guest hosts Jack Conte’s _Digital Spaghetti_ series, exploring the morality of AI use [through song](https://youtu.be/pEEVdC0KuYQ?si=RZLq_fzmehjUEGXp). * **Listen:** Writer Jacob Reed attempts to [track down](https://jacobreedandme.com/episode/s01e01-the-artist) other people with the same name in search of his next career choice. Even the ads are for businesses owned by someone named Jacob Reed. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/why-openai-bought-a-tech-live-show

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/9628c5b5-0844-49d3-a1dc-f3d1e426a9cf/0401_Header_No_Sponsor.png?t=1775060770) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning. **No, it’s not an April Fools’ joke. We’d like to officially introduce the first ever President of The Publish Press: [Lauren Thermos](https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenthermos/). Our Aussie queen has spent 15 years scaling billion-dollar brands (like e.l.f. Beauty, Whole Foods, and Target) and she's been building in the creator economy longer than most people knew it existed. Now she's here to build with us. **Hit reply** to say hi. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: **Today’s lineup:** 1. TikTok creators unlock a new way to monetize virality 2. Hannah and Syd go to a creator-led food festival 3. Readers share their favorite creators View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # TikTok Partners with Cameo View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/f66e4bb0-6b1e-4299-aab3-90fe4a98e6a3/0401_Article_Photo_1.png?t=1775060815) Caption: TikTok integrates Cameo into the platform / [TikTok](https://newsroom.tiktok.com/tiktok-partners-with-cameo-to-unlock-new-monetization-opportunities-for-creators?lang=en) Yesterday TikTok announced a partnership [with Cameo](https://newsroom.tiktok.com/tiktok-partners-with-cameo-to-unlock-new-monetization-opportunities-for-creators?lang=en), which allows users to request and receive personalized videos from creators directly within the TikTok app. **Context: **Cameos regularly go viral on TikTok, and according to Cameo CEO Steven Galanis, TikTok creators delivered its [strongest year yet](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/stevengalanis_super-excited-to-announce-the-launch-of-cameo-ugcPost-7444770204619960320-aOcj/) in 2025. It’s a smart partnership for a brand that has struggled to [bounce back](https://time.com/7200525/cameo-steven-galanis-interview/) from its COVID-era highs.  For TikTok, it’s another monetization vertical in addition to live gifting, series subscriptions, and TikTok Shop. **Why it matters for creators: **Historically, going viral on TikTok meant a spike in followers and maybe a brand deal or two. Bringing Cameo inside the app provides a direct line to fans with minimal friction. And unlike merch or digital downloads, there’s no inventory, logistics, and overhead.  With the integration, TikTok is giving creators custom call-to-action buttons they can add to their videos for personalized messages. Users can also search “Cameo” on TikTok to see its full roster of creators that offer the service. **Big picture: **TikTok Shop, which has been growing into an [ecommerce giant](https://wwd.com/beauty-industry-news/beauty-features/tiktok-shop-amazon-walmart-top-retailers-globally-1238616259/) rivaling eBay, has normalized in-app purchases. Cameo has proven fans will pay for something even more personal. The ability to capture and convert cultural relevance—inside the same app where it’s happening—could produce outsized outcomes for creators.  View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Inside LA’s Biggest Creator-Led Food Fest View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/b685a139-1037-40aa-b12c-f0e8befa269a/0401_Article_Photo_2.png?t=1775060870) Caption: Hannah and Syd (Left, second from left) attend the Yes Chef Food Fest hosted by Jack Goldburg (right) / Photography by Syd Cohen and Yes Chef Group Over the weekend, we attended the Yes Chef Food Fest in Los Angeles, put on by food creator Jack Goldburg (aka [Jack’s Dining Room](https://www.instagram.com/jacksdiningroom/?hl=en)).  **How he got here:**  * Over the past five years, Goldburg has grown a following of five million across socials—specializing in [short-form](https://www.tiktok.com/@jacksdiningroom/video/7437282655969758510?lang=en) [NYC](https://www.tiktok.com/@jacksdiningroom/video/7532614589868035342?lang=en) [restaurant reviews](https://www.tiktok.com/@jacksdiningroom/video/7473260544183618862?lang=en).  * His holding company Yes Chef, co-founded with Liam Henning, has branched into merch, live events, and [private culinary experiences](https://yeschefreserve.com/?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGn7k70nXUDmGeK2ne-3T6LAimLVaxUti-EMnIgvwVDPWiTHlUiX1qpICvR8pU_aem_TU-qvdaDvb5Iv1OXfq_JeQ).  Last June, he hosted his first food fest in NYC (his homebase) drawing 6,000 attendees. This year, he went bigger, like [100 pound pig roast](https://www.instagram.com/p/DWjnEnZhAgn/) bigger. But did the audience turnout translate across coasts? **We went on the ground to see for ourselves:** * The festival reported 10,000 attendees and over 35 vendors from NY and LA. * Tickets were split into tiers—GA cost $40 for admission to the festival and access to giveaways and contests. The VIP tier was around $430, featuring an open bar, private seating with exclusive vendors, and vouchers for free meals at the fest. * We talked to local fans, food industry professionals, and even out-of-towners who flew from Ohio for the VIP experience. “Over the years, we’ve built up relationships with not only the chefs in the community, but the people watching the content—trying to be authentic and uplift everyone,” Goldburg told us. “I think we're a beacon for positivity within the food space.” **Building bridges: **Goldburg was mostly able to set the restaurant lineup through his personal relationships with the restaurants, securing sponsorships from brands like Verizon, Cane’s, and Don Julio. He told us the festival’s new partnership with Pepsi happened because their CMO was a fan of his content. “Food is the connector of everyone and everything,” Goldburg said. “At the end of the day, someone might like music or sports, but everyone eats. So I think these companies value that and want to be part of something so special.” **The whole enchilada:** So what makes this event so unique? For many food creators, [cookbooks](https://www.instagram.com/p/DWZtv5Vj4Y7/?img_index=1) are the [main](https://www.instagram.com/p/DCWyOdFuL0c/?img_index=1) [output](https://www.instagram.com/p/CpdJHVyIFZt/) to connect with fans. But Goldberg isn’t a chef—he’s a curator. And after proving his taste to his audience for five years, they trust him to produce an experience worth flying in for. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # ➕ Community Tab On Friday, we asked you for the creators you think should get more recognition. Thanks to you, our “Watch Later” playlist has never been more interesting. Here are a few of our readers’ recent faves → **Food creator Alvin Zhou** makes [documentary-style videos](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CVJz_OMUc40&t=63s) about exclusive restaurants. His editing style takes inspiration from video games and anime, with sweeping sound effects and music interludes. — Ian W. **NY creator Nico Heller’s** short-form [“surreality” show](https://www.tiktok.com/@revivalofthefittest.tv?lang=en), _Revival of the Fittest_, which takes place in an NYC record shop. From [altercations](https://www.tiktok.com/@revivalofthefittest.tv/video/7620621261672025358?lang=en) about the state of the bathroom to a [guest appearance](https://www.tiktok.com/@revivalofthefittest.tv/video/7616351914904603918?lang=en) from Kareem Rahma—each episode made us wonder, “What did I just watch?” and, “Why can’t I stop?” —Laura W. Film creator **Henry Kidman** [built his own camera](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZAtYJYfV2nA) in a 3D printer—making the process almost as cinematic as the end result. — Isaac T. Thank you to everyone who told us their favorite creators, and if you want to add your fave to the mix…just **hit reply**. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 👀 Creator Jobs * **Microsoft** is hiring a [creator programs communications manager](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2262420-communications-manager-creator-programs-microsoft) to strategize and structure its creator programming. * **Economics Explained** is looking for a [writer/researcher](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/economics-explained_are-you-a-writer-andor-researcher-who-activity-7444420713752739840-SWHC?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAACj5XioBaWjIByIVk96QI_W7tw1lSQBx-QQ) with geopolitics and economics expertise. * **Theme park creator Ordinary Adventures** is hiring a [video editor](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2253247-youtube-vlog-editor-needed-for-travel-theme-park-cruise-channel-premiere-pro-ordinary-adventures) for long-form YouTube vlogs. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [The Tribeca Festival](https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.XrcKB57sLSVpHzSkQonWPWFw2iYP_qHK0PR7PPiLceMbVMFep0YB8aJy7QRi3jbuU5fsXU9vfGotLogIVrAZQaYsjb3ERpMPXWV9gHKa1AeHDO3wUTh_Z4JtQ-R_OvYEH9E3kIKYDUG2adNpXBzB7ECW3x6TaEx24VeSJEIYGtn4k7NodQ517W7kKbYjUEpFMRrduo6g9Vub-radE-MMMlBlfus66zwYtBIYgkcMWT_OzLWnZDnh87b5t3QzYqzb4THFaS7iGKwuKmNaYEj5-g/4e0/n-4vSyzdTv2aFdtzZisg6A/h18/h001.2iBe8DBhmsb19G_X09EyYTkTaNQnahL4ISRgJra-c9Q) is accepting creator collaborations for the [Tribeca X Awards](https://vp.eventival.com/tribecafestival/2026/film-form/tribecax), recognizing brand-backed storytelling. Submissions close April 8. * [Comedy creator Natalie Tran](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kh6UetXI-4o) is raising $30K for her indie film. * [Emma Chamberlain](https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/emma-chamberlain-new-west-elm-collection?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email) releases a home collection with West Elm. * [Alex Cooper](https://variety.com/2026/tv/news/alex-cooper-youtube-reality-show-dakota-mortensen-demi-engemann-1236702799/) is launching a reality show, _Unwell Winter Games,_ next week on YouTube. * [Apple Creator Studio](https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.439121415;dc_trk_aid=632188090;dc_trk_cid=248691022;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=${GDPR};gdpr_consent=${GDPR_CONSENT_755};ltd=;dc_tdv=1) brings the best creative apps for film, music, design, and more together in one subscription. Try your first month free. Then pay just $12.99 a month* * [Instagram](https://x.com/mattnavarra/status/2038676057797312948?s=46&t=NmWUNlnKIvC4arpjp1a_kQ) is testing “Instagram Plus” subscriptions that lets users extend their Stories past 24 hours. * [John Green](https://hollywoodendingbook.com/) is writing his first fiction book in nine years, _Hollywood, Ending_. * [Film creator Kane Parsons](https://youtu.be/0HjdiohVOik?si=ksmCXgt1eyfpQRgl) releases the trailer for his movie _Backrooms_. _*This is sponsored content_ View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/tiktok-adds-a-new-way-to-get-paid

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/415cd0a5-97db-48a0-925f-663dc478466b/0330_Header__2_.png?t=1774894251) Follow image link: (https://www.adobe.com/products/firefly.html) Caption: **Good morning.** We’re less than two months out from our biggest event yet, Press Publish LA: The Hollywood Creator Summit. Applications have been coming in fast and the room is filling up—so far our attendees have a combined following of over 150 million. If you haven’t grabbed your ticket yet, [apply here](https://news.thepublishpress.com/press-publish-la). — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: **Today’s lineup:** 1. Creators share their income 2. Why everyone is talking about Clavicular 3. An _SNL_ alum launches an Instagram show View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # How Much Your Fellow Creators Make in a Year View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/b7e2efbf-1556-4030-8ec9-95b4690a83f3/0330_Article-Graph_1-A.gif?t=1774893510) Caption: We surveyed you on how much money you make through content—these are some snapshots / Illustrations by Moy Zhong Two weeks ago, we asked you how much money you make in a year through content. An overwhelming amount of you responded anonymously with your income, ranging from beginners making $260 in their first year to multi-channel conglomerates raking in millions. 67% of creators considered YouTube their primary platform, followed by Instagram at 15%. **Why now:** Every creator has worried about how much—or how little—they're making. And while we're in a more transparent industry than most (raise your hand if you've seen a "how much I made this year" YouTube video) it's always hard to tell what's normal for a creator in sports, finance, or education.  The aim of the survey is to capture this moment, shed light on how much creators are making across niches, and provide service to those who are looking to make a little more. **Here’s a snapshot of creators’ yearly income →** View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/aaf5acb7-c8df-4426-94c4-ab875cbe3335/Salaries_Athlete.png?t=1774890452) Caption: **The Athlete: $130,000** A short-form sports entertainment creator with 2 million YouTube subscribers. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/389cf520-a425-4ff2-b7a8-a39023acbc3c/Salaries_Newbie.png?t=1774890464) Caption: **The Newbie: $7,000** A long-form video essayist in their first year of making content on YouTube. They primarily focus on movie analysis and told us they expect to earn more this year. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/e3936a3b-0d9f-4299-a271-40256bb639d4/Salaries_Scientist.png?t=1774890480) Caption: **The International Scientist: $280,000** A Portuguese-speaking science creator studio with 10 full-time employees. Its co-founder told us they personally make around $32K USD per year. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/d65ae0d8-e70f-4ddd-a319-641cc69d2189/Salaries_Fashion.png?t=1774890502) Caption: **The Fashion Mogul: $865,000** A fashion creator who posts both long- and short-form content. Their revenue is split 50/50 between YouTube and Instagram. “We get more [brand] deals on YouTube, but drive more affiliate revenue from Instagram,” they shared. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/46e244f3-e632-42d2-8db8-9a0fefd98bc9/Salaries_Industry.png?t=1774892448) Caption: **The Institution: $7,500,000** A long-form “edutainment” creator team that posts to five different YouTube channels. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/b8935ba9-5be5-43ab-ac3f-3a3523574463/Salaries_Comedian.png?t=1774892460) Caption: **The Comedian: $300,000** A long-form commentary YouTuber, who has been making videos for four years. **How we see it: **It’s easy to read the headlines and see multi-million subscriber channels as a representation of our industry. But 53% of our respondents reported making less than $100K per year. With ad dollars often consolidated toward top players, how can smaller creators entice brands to spend on them?  * The key to getting there, according to our own Samir Chaudry, is packaging. Brands are looking for professional creators who know what they offer, and can trust them to deliver.  * Chaudry recommends creating a “menu” of offerings to pitch to brands.  * For example, in Colin and Samir’s pitch deck, they list a price for a 60-second integration, sold in a three-episode package, across three months. “​​Instead of negotiating from scratch every time, we assigned clear prices to specific offerings,” Samir said in a [Creator Support newsletter](https://courses.colinandsamir.com/e/BAh7BjoWZW1haWxfZGVsaXZlcnlfaWRsKwhwkUlICQA%3D--b29be08ff66665a047bfe2220cda010a21a78d8e?skip_click_tracking=true). “[...] Once we did this, deals closed faster, and more of them closed.” **Want access to the full creator income report?** Sign up to receive it when it comes out👇 Get the full report (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScligv2GLkyHa2Nr9dbzlKPvd5orFdtxIqva4i0S3ptAgfVDw/viewform?usp=publish-editor) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Clavicular, Explained View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7bec78c3-fe7a-467e-9c6f-3190f9ebbeba/0330_Article_Photo_2.png?t=1774890153) Caption: Streamer Bradon Peters, known as Clavicular, popularized the term "looksmaxxing," going extreme lengths to improve one's appearance / [The Adam Friedland Show](https://www.instagram.com/p/DU11zc8DAdH/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) If you’ve heard the words “looksmaxxing” or “mogging” in the past month, you might have Bradon Peters (aka Clavicular) to thank.  The 20-year-old [streamer](https://kick.com/clavicular) has amassed over 1.5 million followers in the last year going to extreme measures to improve his physical appearance (AKA “looksmaxxing”)—including using methamphetamines and smashing his cheekbones with a hammer.  Peters makes roughly $100K per month through donations, Kick's creator program, and a $50/month coaching subscription, Clavicular’s Clan. **How he got here → ** * 2020: At 14, Peters starts injecting testosterone and spending up to 14 hours a day on looksmaxxing forums  * 2024: Peters is expelled from college for steroid use; goes full-time on Kick * 2025: Peters goes viral after appearing on stream with ‘manosphere’ influencers [Nick Fuentes](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kb3cCK_80eA&t=27s) and [Andrew Tate](https://youtu.be/irgUvEH8Uy4?si=EnfPX_sllFSfKZTa&t=14816); helps popularize terms like “looksmaxxing” and “mogging”—which means to physically appear better than someone else. For example, “the 6’5” man height-mogged everyone in the room.” * Looksmaxxing vocabulary has since appeared at the Oscars, in Pentagon communications, and on _SNL_. **Worth noting:** The looksmaxxing movement is derived from the incel community, rooted in [misogynistic ideology](https://www.tiktok.com/@kingclavicular/video/7583595429342743839?lang=en) and eurocentric beauty standards. Clavicular has used racial slurs on stream, and was [recently arrested](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cr513g72vqgo) for allegedly instigating a filmed fight between two women.  In a [recent interview](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-_6mni6k0Zw&pp=ygUKY2xhdmljdWxhcg%3D%3D) with news creator Andrew Callaghan, Peters said that appearances were the most important value in life. “Now, you have to be so well off in another category to compensate for your lack of looks that you have to be a Beethoven-level player in order to compete with a guy who’s mogging and going to the club,” Clavicular told Callaghan. **Big picture:** It would be easy to write Clavicular off as a single provocateur chasing views—and without a doubt, he is. But [critics](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=en_Sut1H6OM) [argue](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iyKMs4K6tww) his rise reflects something bigger. As more of life plays out on image-based platforms—swiping, rating, scrolling—the message that your worth is tied to your looks [gets louder](https://www.dazeddigital.com/beauty/article/60860/1/we-were-never-supposed-to-see-our-faces-this-much-social-media-zoom). Peters didn't invent that idea. He just took it to the extreme, and figured out how to monetize it. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: Sponsored by [Adobe](https://www.adobe.com/products/firefly.html) # The Ultimate AI Studio for Creators Youtube: Adobe Firefly: Your All-In-One Creative AI Studio | Adobe Firefly (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hp9h7v7xDdU) Great creative work requires both choice and control. Adobe Firefly—your all-in-one creative AI studio—gives you both. That starts with giving you access to the right models for the job. Each model has different strengths. Some excel at cinematic motion. Others stand out in illustration, photorealism or stylized design. Different creative directions demand different strengths. One subscription to Adobe Firefly gives you: * Access to 30+ AI models, including Google’s Nano Banana 2 and Veo 3.1, Runway’s Gen-4.5, and Adobe’s own commercially safe models. * New Custom Models that you can train on your own style, so you can generate new ideas aligned to your aesthetic. And your models are private by default, so the content you create with them remains entirely yours. * [Quick Cut](https://blog.adobe.com/en/publish/2026/02/25/putting-ideas-in-motion-redefining-ai-video-with-adobe-firefly) turns raw footage into a structured first cut in minutes. * Expanded image editing to add, remove, or extend scenes so you enjoy fewer rounds of revision. * And more… [Try Firefly for free](https://www.adobe.com/products/firefly.html) and see how far you can push your creative output. [Learn more here](https://blog.adobe.com/en/publish/2026/03/19/adobe-firefly-expands-video-image-creation-with-new-ai-capabilities-custom-models). View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Former ‘SNL’ Cast Member Launches Original Show View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/819fe740-2d45-4b2b-91e0-d39469dcf3fd/0330_Article_Photo_3.png?t=1774890273) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Comedy creator Michael Longfellow launches a short-form show after leaving _SNL _/ [The Void](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DVY8UKcEXOi/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) Most creators dream of being on _SNL_—but what’s a comedian’s career after _SNL_? For former cast member [Michael Longfellow](https://www.instagram.com/longfellow_michael/), it looks a lot like being a creator. This month Longfellow launched an Instagram show, _[The Void](https://www.instagram.com/orderofthevoid/)__,_ in partnership with creative management and production studio [Unicorn](https://www.instagram.com/cookedbyunicorn/). * Longfellow takes on a wizard-like persona as a [floating head](https://www.instagram.com/p/DVeF1YwkY7f/) on video, where comedians and creators share secrets from their [wiping style](https://www.instagram.com/p/DVwAXFJDsJD/) to being [twerked on](https://www.instagram.com/p/DVY8UKcEXOi/). * Guests include creators and comedians like [Corey B](https://www.instagram.com/p/DVwAXFJDsJD/) and [Matt Lopes](https://www.instagram.com/p/DVeF1YwkY7f/). _The Void_ films at Unicorn’s NYC studio in 2-4 hour sessions, with each guest in a 10-minute slot. Unicorn handles production, distribution and development. Longfellow and Unicorn split IP and profits 50/50. **Big picture:** More comedians want to bet on themselves, creating shows with shared profit and ownership. “It’s a growing trend within the comedian community, as projects historically take years to green light,” Unicorn cofounder Scott Dunn said. “At Unicorn, we try to go from concept to launch in weeks.” View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 👀 Creator Jobs * **Public Opinion **is looking for a [video journalist](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2252915-video-journalist-public-opinion), [social media coordinator](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2252914-social-media-coordinator-public-opinion), and [executive assistant](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2252916-executive-assistant-public-opinion). * **Golf education creators Golfwell** are hiring a [videographer and editor](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2250911-golf-videographer-editor-golfwell) to produce instructional videos. * **MrBeast** is hiring a [head of viral marketing](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2252917-head-of-viral-marketing-products-and-services-mrbeast) for its products and services across fintech, telecom, and retail. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Global award show The Clios](https://x.com/the_clios/status/2037216123448418530?s=46) announced a Creator Awards show in partnership with YouTube. * [Apple Creator Studio](https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.439121415;dc_trk_aid=632188090;dc_trk_cid=248691022;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=$%7BGDPR%7D;gdpr_consent=$%7BGDPR_CONSENT_755%7D;ltd=;dc_tdv=1) brings the best creative apps for film, music, design, and more together in one subscription. Try your first month free. Then pay just $12.99 a month.* * [Food creator Olivia Tiedemann](https://www.instagram.com/p/DWZtv5Vj4Y7/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==) publishes a cookbook. * [Senator Elizabeth Warren](https://x.com/senwarren/status/2037346614801584624?s=46) requests information from MrBeast regarding his financial platform’s crypto courses. * [Gaming creator Alanah Pearce](https://variety.com/2026/digital/news/alanah-pearce-charred-pictures-video-game-movies-1236699462/) is launching a production company to adapt games into film and TV shows. * [Animation creator Cas van de Pol](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ay6kYyfv2_4) is releasing a video game and TV pilot. _*This is sponsored content_ View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/creators-share-their-salaries-with-us

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/75dcd284-ce3e-43f4-8907-3b8a1783148a/0327_Header.png?t=1774626037) Follow image link: (https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.438628645;dc_trk_aid=632037567;dc_trk_cid=248618636;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=${GDPR};gdpr_consent=${GDPR_CONSENT_755};ltd=;dc_tdv=1) Caption: **Good morning.** We tell you guys what to watch all the time, but now it’s your turn. Who are your favorite creators right now?  **Hit reply** and we’ll check them out this weekend. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: **Today’s lineup:** 1) Meta and Google were found liable for a woman’s mental health decline 2) Syd visits General Motors’ Creator Lab film set 3) Why sports creators are starting their own leagues View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Platforms Found Liable in Social Media Addiction Case View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/55afa037-6076-4478-a369-cb5b2a56ce1a/0327_Article_Photo_1.png?t=1774626060) Caption: Google and Meta will appeal charges claiming their platforms were responsible for a user's mental health decline / Illustration by Moy Zhong In a landmark court case this week, a California jury found Meta and Google liable for the mental health decline of a 20-year-old woman—[awarding her](https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/25/technology/social-media-trial-verdict.html) $3 million in compensatory damages, plus $2.1 million in punitive damages from Meta and $900,000 from Google, totaling $6 million. **Context:** In the past, platforms have been able to deflect legal threats through [Section 230](https://www.congress.gov/crs-product/R46751) of the Communications Decency Act, which states that social platforms cannot be held liable for what its users post. This case set a precedent by successfully arguing that the platforms' _design choices_—rather than any specific user-generated content—caused harm, allowing it to sidestep Section 230 protections entirely. It’s the first case of this kind to reach a jury verdict.  Earlier this week, a different lawsuit in New Mexico found Meta liable for [child exploitation](https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/boards-policy-regulation/jury-orders-meta-pay-375-mln-new-mexico-lawsuit-over-child-sexual-exploitation-2026-03-24/)—charging $375 million in civil penalties.  “The fact that the first hurdle [of reaching a jury] was passed opens up the doors for the thousands of other similar cases that were pending—maybe the judges that were thinking of dismissing them won't now,” attorney and creator Tyler Chou told us. **What this could mean for creators:** The precedent set by the case might change how platforms show content to users, potentially changing its algorithm or implementing tighter age restrictions and ID verification. * “In a world where YouTube has to scrutinize the content for creators, the future could look like uploading a video a day early, and having it go through some quality check or process to ensure that it meets the standards of YouTube or whatever platform we’re uploading to,” Samir Chaudry told us.  * “It could mean less available time for audiences or overall less audience if there are age restrictions,” Chaudry said. “All of these things would be a net positive for society, but would dramatically change how the creator economy works today.” **Worth noting:** Some [foundations argue](https://hopelab.org/stories/without-it-i-wouldnt-be-here) that age restrictions could alienate certain groups, such as LGBTQ+ youth.  TikTok and Snap settled for an undisclosed amount with the plaintiff before the case, while Google and Meta vowed to appeal the charges, which means that the case still needs to go through the federal and Supreme courts. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Inside GM’s Creator Lab View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/75ee6cc6-52c7-42bb-8be0-bac8322a9aff/0327_Article_Photo_2.png?t=1774626099) Caption: Syd (left) reports from General Motors' Creator Lab, where a creator (right) shoots content on site / Photography by Syd Cohen Hi, Syd here. Earlier this week, I visited General Motors’ Creator Lab hosted by [Kinigra Deon](https://www.youtube.com/@KinigraDeon) and [Adam Waheed](https://www.youtube.com/@AdamW)—where 25 creators were competing for a GM car.  **How it worked:** * Creators like [Steven Spence](https://www.instagram.com/spence/?hl=en) and [Micajah Stude](https://www.instagram.com/micajahstude/?hl=en) were given access to five sets, each showcasing GM vehicles in a different setting (like a Chevy at a campsite or a Cadillac on a red carpet). * Competitors were required to tag GM in their content.  Apart from the competition, an additional 50 creators were invited to film on set, no promotion required. The event was produced in partnership with creator studio [Room 1041](https://room1041.com/). Besides Deon and Waheed, the Room 1041 team told me none of the creators were paid to be there. Which got me thinking: **What makes GM so appealing to creators?** * The answer may lie in its leadership. [Lucy Tate](https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucymtate/), GM’s head of influencer marketing, has a deep history with creators (8 years at YouTube to be exact) and tapped Room 1041 to help build an activation that talent would actually want to post on their feeds.  * Tate was brought onto the team by [Jessica Wang](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicawang/), another former YouTube exec who now directs GM’s global strategy. “[Creator Lab] is a very interesting type of execution because we are giving people pretty free reign on the stories that they want to tell,” Tate told us. **Forging connections:** Beyond building brand awareness with creators and audiences, Tate wants to expand GM’s network of potential collaborators. “We're talent scouting, honestly,” Tate said. “I want to see what [creators are] going to produce organically, and maybe that will transpire into a paid relationship later on.” **Big picture:** Brands with lifelong customers (like car manufacturers) are looking to reach young audiences and build trust, and creators are the perfect road to get there. By bringing on execs with established creator economy experience and producing series with creator hosts (like former Colin and Samir showrunner [David Gorvy](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8qpu-9mJPI)), GM is creating a digitally native presence—all gas, no brakes. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: Sponsored by [Apple Creator Studio](https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.438628645;dc_trk_aid=632037567;dc_trk_cid=248618636;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=${GDPR};gdpr_consent=${GDPR_CONSENT_755};ltd=;dc_tdv=1) # All Your Creative Tools Working Together View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/dc59d337-5206-4bce-9a4b-0297f07ceed4/1200x700_VERBS_Press_Publish_Primary_Newsletter1x.webp?t=1774626328) Follow image link: (https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.438628645;dc_trk_aid=632037567;dc_trk_cid=248618636;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=${GDPR};gdpr_consent=${GDPR_CONSENT_755};ltd=;dc_tdv=1) Caption: Apple Creator Studio brings together the best of Apple’s apps on Mac and iPad for video, music, design, and productivity into one low-priced subscription. * Final Cut Pro gives you smarter, faster ways to craft and cut captivating videos. * Pixelmator Pro lets you reimagine images, create striking graphics, paint, draw, illustrate, and more. * Logic Pro helps you produce music and perfect audio—bringing brilliance to every beat. * Supercharged productivity apps bring intelligent features to help you get more done in Keynote, Pages, and Numbers. With Apple Creator Studio, it’s all yours for the making. [Start creating now with a free trial](https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.438628645;dc_trk_aid=632037567;dc_trk_cid=248618636;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=${GDPR};gdpr_consent=${GDPR_CONSENT_755};ltd=;dc_tdv=1). View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Golf Creators Launch Competitive Tour View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7ff3950a-b5c1-4671-b326-bd448267c7cb/0327_Article_Photo_3.png?t=1774626548) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: (Left to right) Grant Horvat, George Bryan IV and Wesley Bryan announce their creator golf tour / [Your Golf Tour](https://www.instagram.com/p/DWUDf4YliTn/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) The YouTube Golf community is getting its own tour—owned by creators. Golf creators [Grant Horvat](https://www.youtube.com/@GrantHorvatGolfs) and [Bryan Bros](https://www.youtube.com/@BryanBrosGolf) just launched [Your Golf Tour](https://www.instagram.com/p/DWUDf4YliTn/?hl=en&img_index=1), a competitive multi-year tour for top players across YouTube Golf. **The details:** Sixteen players [will compete](https://x.com/GrantHorvatGolf/status/2036904169647595887) in four tournaments a year, culminating in a championship with a $1 million prize—airing on Horvat and Bryan Bros’ channels. The tour is made in partnership with Wynn Golf Club and agency Big Bird, which also created LIV Golf’s _[The Duels](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y903XlroDfw)_ series.  **Big picture: **More creator athletes are building their own competitive formats and fan communities outside of traditional league play. [Peoples League](https://peoplesleaguegolf.com/) is a creator golf league sponsored by brands like Draft Kings and Liquid IV. WNBA athletes started Unrivaled, a 3 v. 3 league, where players like Paige Bueckers can [earn more](https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/44663101/paige-bueckers-sign-3-year-deal-unrivaled) in one year than in a four-year WNBA rookie contract. For Horvat and Bryan Bros, the tour could open up another revenue stream and sponsors—building off their own audience with similar distribution mechanisms as major leagues. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Comedy creator Josh Johnson](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/digital/josh-johnson-host-2026-webby-awards-exclusive-1236546738/%5C) is hosting the Webby Awards. * [TwitchCon](https://blog.twitch.tv/en/2026/03/25/twitchcon-2026-building-the-future/) now requires reservations for meet and greets, following an assault at last year’s convention. * [Man-on-the-street creator Davis Burleson](https://variety.com/2026/digital/news/davis-burleson-tiktok-sirius-xm-radio-shows-1236699626/) is launching two SiriusXM podcasts. * [Sony Pictures](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/jeopardy-youtube-edition-launching-ken-jennings-creators-1236547801/) is launching a _Jeopardy!_ spinoff on YouTube featuring creator contestants, hosted by Ken Jennings. * [Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Writing_articles_with_large_language_models) bans AI-generated written content. * [Lifestyle creator Kelsey Darragh](https://shopcatalog.com/products/dont-do-what-i-did-break-up-bounce-back?utm_source=author&utm_campaign=dont-do-what-i-did&utm_medium=author) is releasing a book, _Don’t Do What I Did—Break Up and Bounce Back_. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 📚️ Thank You for Pressing Publish _The content we’re looking forward to reading, watching, and listening to this weekend._ * **Read:** Need a crash course on why this season of _The Bachelorette_ got canceled? TV writer Hunter Harris [dives deep](https://hunterharris.substack.com/p/taylor-frankie-paul-bachelorette-explainer?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email&utm_content=share) into _The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives_ lore, and why the show made the decision to pull the program. * **Watch:** Science creator Prop Department modifies a Ford Festiva to make the [thinnest street-legal car](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WO6aRHKe7_c). * **Listen:** Short-form video journalist [Sophia Smith Galer](https://open.spotify.com/episode/2fsRmnBF7dwl3LULVuJpON?si=tv7Z41WUQfy7E4kvRo3kzw) explores AI’s impact on book publishing after finding a fake biography of herself on Amazon.  View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/meta-and-google-lose-landmark-civil-case

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/baf96e56-0c6e-4242-b4a2-ed2671f836d3/0325_Header_No_Sponsor.png?t=1774454223) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning.** Yesterday afternoon, OpenAI announced it's shutting down its video generation app, Sora 2, along with video generation capabilities in ChatGPT.  With other AI video platforms like Seedance 2.0 coming to the forefront, could OpenAI be gearing up for something bigger? — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: **Today’s lineup:** 1) YouTube improves its brand partnerships portal 2) A creator that makes ads feel like movies 3) The Creators’ Guild of America launches a credentials platform View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Inside YouTube’s New Brand Partnerships Portal View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/af302500-d4ec-464a-bd3a-439677240e99/0325_Article_Photo_1.png?t=1774454316) Caption: YouTube launches a new Creator Partnerships portal in YouTube Studio / Illustration by Moy Zhong This week at YouTube NewFronts, the platform unveiled its new and improved [Creator Partnerships](https://blog.youtube/news-and-events/youtube-creator-partnerships-newfronts-2026/) portal in YouTube Studio (formerly known as BrandConnect), giving creators more discoverability with potential advertising partners. **Context:** Creators have [criticized](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KNLC0pjXE9E&t=197s) BrandConnect in the past, claiming it produced low engagement rates, promoted scammy advertisers, and lowballed fees. **Here’s what’s new:** Creators can share more channel insights with brands—which YouTube has said can lead to higher discovery rates with brands. For advertisers, Google Gemini will match creators with relevant campaigns and send out multiple inquiries at once. **What YouTube creators are saying:** * “Interesting to see if this works out…Brand Connect was a ghost town of a feature,” paranormal creator Kallen “[Slapped Ham](https://x.com/SlappedHam/status/2036228719111758071?s=20)” Johnstone said on X. * “I think finding brand deals has always been a pain point for creators. If YouTube can pull this off it’ll be a pretty big deal,” esports creator [Rushindra Sinha](https://x.com/irushi/status/2036157119570067652?s=20) commented on X. * “This could actually be a big win for creators if it means brands can find the right channels faster and more creators start getting surfaced for deals,” business creator [Muaaz](https://x.com/mws/status/2036158473365242106?s=20) said on X. Third-party brand partnership services have become increasingly popular among creators.  * [Agentio](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/so-what-s-your-take) recently raised $40 million, with creators like Rhett and Link on its advisory board.  * Other creator-entrepreneurs have started their own platforms, like Andrea Cassanova’s [Ginger](https://gingerinbox.com/) (currently in beta testing). **The biggest difference?** While Agentio [takes 20%](https://www.agentio.com/terms) of the total campaign budget, Google isn’t currently taking a platform fee, according to a source on the YouTube comms team. Creator Partnerships could revive the in-platform advertising game for YouTube, with little risk to creators. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # How This Creator Makes Ads That Feel Like Movies View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/07ea8132-09f8-485a-9dac-c80a0279dab5/0325_Article_Photo_2.png?t=1774454407) Caption: Braxton Haugen shares how brand partnerships support his world-building / Photography courtesy of Braxton Haugen Filmmaker [Braxton Haugen](https://www.instagram.com/braxtonhaugen/)—a former apprentice of artist Van Neistat—has built a 100K following on Instagram in less than a year with his 20-part short film series, _The World of Braxton Haugen. _It includes diaristic videos such as a week-long [artist residency](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DTK_boujqxv/), DIY [Airpod case](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DObM7-DEZw2/), and [flower press](https://www.youtube.com/shorts/-m8i8COtPDg) notes. **It also includes work with brands. **Haugen’s [recent](https://www.instagram.com/smythson/reel/DQWxexqjHog/) [collaboration](https://www.instagram.com/p/DUlVNLajYly/) with luxury brand Smythson, which shows his affinity for stationery, became two of the brand’s most-viewed videos.  The secret isn’t a transactional approach to sponsorship—it’s a creative philosophy that treats brand films as extensions of his artistic world, Haugen told us. Here’s how he keeps brand work on-brand ➡️ **Form a narrative.** Haugen writes scripts that advance both his story and the brand's. His first Smythson video documented [the making](https://www.instagram.com/p/DQWxexqjHog/) of a film [he released](https://www.instagram.com/p/DQ4YNfLDDVu/) later on his own channel—showing how it came together using the brand's analog tools. "The movies I've made with Smythson are stand-alone movies that have their own sequences that are meant to expand the scope of my world...those add to the series, they aren't detours,” Haugen said. “They are BTS movies about the actual series I make." **Stay selective. **Haugen turns down more deals than he accepts, partnering only with brands that already fit naturally in his world, such as luxury stationery, clothing, and hotels. The result? Audience trust. "We were all pretty nervous to put [the first Smythson video] out at first, but right away it had the most engagement of any Reel they had on their account,” Haugen said. **Think long-term about short-form.** "My dream would be that years from now, someone comes back and watches the diary I made in November of 2025 and buys a diary in November 2030,” Haugen said. “Those are the kind of ads I'm interested in making because they go beyond just the moment." View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Is This the Next IMDb for Creators? View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/836f99c2-b8c7-4abb-b31d-3b5b965e1b20/0325_Article_Photo_3.png?t=1774454492) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: The Creators Guild of America builds platform Mosaic to credit work on social media to their creators / [Creators Guild of America](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/digital/digital-creator-credits-platform-launched-creators-guild-1236544648/) AI content and re-uploads makes it hard for creators and operators to verify original work. The non-profit Creators Guild of America wants to fix that with [Mosaic](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/digital/digital-creator-credits-platform-launched-creators-guild-1236544648/), a [free platform](https://mosaic.creatorsguildofamerica.org/login?redirect=%2F) designed to verify and credit creators and operators for their work. **How it works:**  * Users submit their projects to Mosaic for verification. * All credits must be corroborated by a third party who worked with the user on the project. * Credits will only be assigned if the creator is paid by a brand, agency, platform, or subscription-based audiences. **Worth noting:** Other creator-led platforms (like [Showrunner](https://universe.showrunner.nyc/) and [Gondola](https://gondola.cc/)) have attempted to build credential networks for creators—but similar to link-in-bio tools, no single platform has emerged as a dominant source across the industry.   View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Instagram](https://help.instagram.com/491565145294150) is terminating end-to-end encryption in DMs starting May 8. * [Alix Earle](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DWRtm9ADxil/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==) launches a skincare brand. * [Podcast company Goalhanger](https://goalhanger.com/theaccelerator) opens applications for its UK creator accelerator program. * [Andrew Siwicki, former Vine creator](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jI8YJpK8lcs) and longtime collaborator of comedy creator Garrett Watts, launches a YouTube channel.  * [Meta](https://transparency.meta.com/enforcement/detecting-violations/transforming-content-enforcement-with-AI/) will start using AI to enforce platform guidelines. * [Trisha Paytas](https://www.instagram.com/p/DWRiCEQlKDC/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==) is releasing a memoir. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/youtube-revamps-its-partnerships-portal

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/594bba85-9649-4fcd-a87d-3a3d90406cb0/0323_Header_No_Sponsor.png?t=1774283069) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning.** [Merlin](https://www.instagram.com/merlinthepig/?hl=en)—a pig whose owner taught him to communicate through buttons—just broke the Guinness World Record for “most followed pig on Instagram” with 1.1 million followers. We’re pressing our “congrats” button, Merlin. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: **Today’s lineup:** 1. Inside Buzzfeed Tasty’s new content strategy 2. How an Instagram creator continues to go viral after a decade 3. What NIL deals look like during March Madness View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Can This Legacy Publisher Reinvent Itself With a Creator Strategy? View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/ca8d222f-6a3c-4ad1-8bed-9b9c271224ac/0323_Article_Photo_1.png?t=1774283143) Caption: Buzzfeed's Tasty turns ten years old / [Tasty](https://www.facebook.com/buzzfeedtasty/) Buzzfeed’s food media branch, Tasty—known for pioneering several content formats with their “[hands and pans](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1t60widjlhY)” videos and a [creator-led](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QUP8vf18oWA) cast—turns 10 this year. **But food media has changed a lot in the last decade: **Individual creators like [Tineke Younger](https://www.tiktok.com/@tinekeyounger?lang=en) are making [hooky](https://www.instagram.com/p/DTq_4uAD-2r/?hl=en), [short-form](https://www.tiktok.com/@logagm/video/7398567357783821574?q=logagm&t=1774274678956) videos and creating recipes optimized for platforms like TikTok and Pinterest. Larger creators like [Mythical Kitchen](https://www.youtube.com/@mythicalkitchen) and [Nick DiGiovanni](https://www.youtube.com/@NickDiGiovanni) are dominating on YouTube, where [food challenge videos](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNePQW56rDU) reign supreme. **So how is Tasty adapting?** We talked with the brand’s head of editorial Ross Yoder and head of video Brian Moreno about their strategy →  “If you were looking at a Tasty video in 2016, we were purposefully not featuring people's faces in that content. The whole model was hands and pans,” Yoder told us. “As soon as video became the preferred medium for recipe discovery, Tasty moved so quickly towards a creator-first model, which I know Brian and I are still really proud of.” **Here’s the gameplan for staying nimble in a more competitive creator space:** 1. Expand the Tasty Creator Network with more creator hosts (currently consisting of 13 contract creators). 2. Funnel audience members from social platforms to its recipe [website](https://tasty.co/) using in-platform tools like Manychat.  3. Prioritize a central filming location (like Tasty’s Hollywood studio) for more recognizable content production.  4. Cater content to the users on specific platforms. “With the diversity of video platforms right now, you have to be thinking about these different audiences,” Moreno told us. **Big picture:** Other food media companies like [Food52](https://www.instagram.com/p/DWMiYhaEUWE/) and [Bon Appétit](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DWE2JR1kYGY/) are leaning heavily on new creator talent as digital advertising shifts from publishers to creators and platforms. For its part, Buzzfeed has struggled to stay profitable in recent years and has significantly [downsized](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/hot-ones-sells-for-83-million) as its market cap shrank from over $1 billion to $27 million. Buzzfeed told investors earlier this month that there’s “[substantial doubt](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-03-12/buzzfeed-explores-strategic-options-to-stave-off-insolvency?accessToken=eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJzb3VyY2UiOiJTdWJzY3JpYmVyR2lmdGVkQXJ0aWNsZSIsImlhdCI6MTc3MzM2MTAwNiwiZXhwIjoxNzczOTY1ODA2LCJhcnRpY2xlSWQiOiJUQlNaRDRUOU5KTFMwMCIsImJjb25uZWN0SWQiOiI0OTAxQjlERTBFQjk0OEI4OTI1NEVBQUU0QkM4Q0U3RiJ9.l3ZX3K_szR0vcvJ77O-BK69HotGU5Qg3TmCFt485lPY)” it can stay in business, but founder Jonah Peretti is [considering](https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/20/business/media/buzzfeed-jonah-peretti-ai-future.html) selling properties like Tasty to stay afloat.  The question now: Can Tasty’s attempted pivot from online media brand to creator-first powerhouse offer Buzzfeed the turnaround it needs? **Hit reply** and let us know what you think. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 3 Lessons from a Top Instagram Design Creator View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/1613518b-40fe-4ac7-850d-1f8badbea39c/0323_Article_Photo_2.png?t=1774283406) Caption: Pablo Rochat (left to right) slides butter in a pan like the bouncing DVD logo, dips fries into an iPhone's "record" button like ketchup, and uses Converse Chucks to trim his hedges / [Pablo Rochat](https://www.instagram.com/p/DVrLLiOgUOX/) “I try to find things in daily life—the iPhone user interface, email, or garbage can—things that people use but don’t think could be funny,” design creator [Pablo Rochat](https://www.instagram.com/pablo.rochat/) told us. Rochat has built a following of 1 million on Instagram by turning everyday objects into unexpected, playful ideas—like [dipping fries](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJo22XatJ5F/) into the iPhone’s “record” button, [fliers](https://x.com/PabloRochat/status/1285598426881720320) for pigeons, or a “typing” iMessage bubble that turns into [a ghost](https://www.instagram.com/p/DO6OZecDdxv/?img_index=3). **Over the past decade, that approach has earned him 300M+ likes**, credits directing [music videos](https://www.pablorochat.com/recent-work/drake), and work with brands like [Gucci](https://www.instagram.com/p/DVESGZaEWZw/?img_index=1), [Converse](https://www.instagram.com/p/DVrLLiOgUOX/), and [Adobe](https://www.instagram.com/p/DRffR5FgVFM/). **We hopped on a call to hear about his creative process →** **1. Idea > execution** Rochat works across media—illustration, VFX, video—but always starts with the idea. “I like communicating an idea in a concise way—a lot of those fundamental ideas live in graphic design. How in one second, can you communicate a feeling in a smart and interesting way?” Rochat said. **2. Take cues from the algorithm** Rochat views platform changes (like Instagram prioritizing Reels over grid posts) as creative prompts. “I just take that as a brief,” Rochat said. “The art is to entertain as many people as possible.” **3. Make time to tinker** Rochat says ideas come from observations or thinking about a simple thing for a long period of time. “Some idea that I’ll post next week is something I’ve thought about for three years. Some things need time to marinate,” Rochat said. He said a [recent post](https://www.instagram.com/p/DWE9hnwgUHP/?img_index=2) of a yoga pants with phone cameras that look like otter eyes took hours to come up with.  **Looking ahead: **Rochat wants to continue experimenting with more media such as photo collages and long-form video and expand into more commercial director work.  “I was always afraid of getting really good at one thing and a style that could get old for people,” Rochat said. “So I'm constantly trying to create something that’s surprising both to me and my audience just to stay ahead of being too repetitive.” View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # JPMorgan Chase, Intuit TurboTax Prioritize NIL Creators View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/1886a6e2-5fce-4c14-80dc-0215d2623b96/0323_Article_Photo_3.png?t=1774283442) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Intuit TurboTax sponsors Otega Oweh (left) and Facebook taps Cameron and Cayden Boozer (second from right, right) / Photography by [Joseph Boatman](https://www.instagram.com/p/DCVAeVFRJlv/?img_index=1) and [SLAM](https://www.instagram.com/p/DKzhF0PRVYC/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) While Arizona and Arkansas duke it out for their spot in the Elite Eight this week, the real champions of March Madness might just be Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) creators. Companies are spending an estimated [$932 million](https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/study-college-basketball-nil-spending-213429556.html) on NIL deals for the NCAA this year, the most in any single year since NIL rules rolled out in 2021.   **Here’s the latest → ** * **JPMorgan Chase **started an [NIL creator program](https://www.reuters.com/markets/wealth/jpmorgan-creates-star-athletes-council-new-wealth-management-service-2026-03-18/) with a focus on providing financial services to athletes, some of whom may experience sudden retirement from injury. Established athletes like Megan Rapinoe and Tom Brady will sit on the advisory council. * **Intuit TurboTax**, an official corporate sponsor of the NCAA, worked fast—releasing a [sponsored video](https://www.instagram.com/p/DWK0z2GjhJg/) with University of Kentucky shooting guard Otega Oweh after his buzzer beater shot on Friday. * Even platforms like **Facebook** are sponsoring players like Duke’s [Boozer Twins](https://www.instagram.com/p/DWFbrJGjq5M/?hl=en) as their team advances to the third round of the tournament. **What this means for creators:** Prominent athletic programs are able to entice sports creators with the promise of [lucrative NIL deals](https://www.instagram.com/p/DWCCD5wkeO6/?hl=en) and even paying them directly under the 2025 [House vs. NCAA](https://www.espn.com/college-sports/story/_/id/45467505/judge-grants-final-approval-house-v-ncaa-settlement) settlement. Kentucky reportedly spent [$22 million](https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7139599/2026/03/22/kentucky-basketball-ncaa-tournament-money-roster/) on its roster this season through payroll and NIL deals. This gives more opportunities to top athletes-turned-creators—and schools are paying attention. Some programs have [shrunken their rosters](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/who-s-really-winning-nil) to prioritize spending on top NIL talent.  View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 👀 Creator Jobs * **FlightStory** is hiring for a [variety of roles](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2248714-open-call-for-roles), including producers, videographers, and post-production leads. * **Morning Brew** is looking for an [associate booking producer](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2248715-associate-booking-producer) to help source talent for content across all social platforms. * **Airrack** is hiring a [junior producer](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2248716-junior-producer) to coordinate shoots, source and transport props, and support associate and lead producers across a variety of projects. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Sidemen ](https://www.instagram.com/p/DVdxH3pDNUU/?hl=en&img_index=2)_[Inside](https://www.instagram.com/p/DVdxH3pDNUU/?hl=en&img_index=2)_[ season 3 premieres](https://www.instagram.com/p/DVdxH3pDNUU/?hl=en&img_index=2) on Netflix UK featuring creators like Ben Azelart and Chian Reynolds.  * [US Senators](https://www.welch.senate.gov/welch-blackburn-urge-bytedance-to-immediately-shut-down-seedance-2-0-ai-video-model-following-copyright-infringement/) call for shutdown of Bytedance's AI video generator, Seedance 2.0. * [YouTube](https://support.google.com/youtube/answer/16650958?hl=en&co=GENIE.Platform%3DAndroid) brings DMs back to its mobile app for European users. * [Fred Rogers Productions](https://deadline.com/2026/03/mister-rogers-neighborhood-youtube-channel-1236760195/) is launching a YouTube channel for _Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood_ episodes and clips. * [Airrack is looking for LA residents](https://www.youtube.com/post/UgkxFLncvqZc1y6sNhcSZCF23TbViWYDEGzQ) who have lost items for an upcoming project. * [Game developer Mojang Studios](https://variety.com/2026/digital/news/minecraft-world-theme-park-opening-2027-first-look-70-million-1236695555/) is opening a $70 million “Minecraft World” in a UK theme park. * [Slow Ventures Creator Fund](https://luma.com/bolmxe68?_bhlid=8bc69a6ca2a9f22c34fe5b1ece1f8ef94bd1989e&utm_campaign=revenge-of-the-non-coder-creator-ai-bootcamp-hackathon&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_source=snailmail.slow.co) is hosting an AI vibecoding bootcamp for creators. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/can-tasty-save-buzzfeed

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/b569d52f-b7bf-4ed6-9bde-a4cd437f28bd/0320_Header__2_.png?t=1774024418) Follow image link: (https://blog.adobe.com/en/publish/2026/03/10/image-editing-just-got-smarter-with-ai-photoshop-firefly) Caption: **Good morning.** It is officially spring in the Northern Hemisphere, meaning it will (hopefully) be warm enough to spend our Sunday evening doomscroll on the porch instead of the couch.  **By the way: **On Wednesday, we misrepresented the relationship between two YouTube strategists and Red Bull. An updated version of the story can be found [here](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/why-tom-scott-came-back). Sorry about that. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: **Today’s lineup:** 1) An AI podcast about the Epstein files hits No. 1 on the UK charts 2) Fox Creator Studios hires a new lead 3) Facebook launches a new creator program View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # How This Vibecoded Podcast Went No. 1 View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a7550016-6f8b-47cd-a8db-9fd944981c43/0320_Article_Photo_1.png?t=1774022317) Caption: Adam Levy (right) created 'The Epstein Files' podcast through vibecoding / [The Epstein Files](https://open.spotify.com/show/76JtZcoXjEd9S0TrfNEyOj?si=f6b86bdeee8b45f6&nd=1&dlsi=6fd68aaceefc4a16), [Outer Edge](https://www.outeredge.live/speakers/Adam-Levy) 121 podcast episodes in 6 weeks. Almost 2 million downloads in the first month. It’s not _Call Her Daddy_. It’s not _The Colin and Samir Show_. It's a vibecoded podcast about [the Epstein Files](https://open.spotify.com/show/76JtZcoXjEd9S0TrfNEyOj?si=f6b86bdeee8b45f6), made by AI creator [Adam Levy](https://x.com/levychain) on Anthropic’s Claude Opus 4.5 model. **But what does that mean?** “Vibecoding” is when creators use large language models (like ChatGPT or Claude) to create apps—often without prior coding knowledge. Levy vibecoded a private app called Distill, which aggregates links and creates audio summaries of certain topics. From there, the idea for _The Epstein Files_ podcast was born: a daily, self-updating podcast that uses data from news sites and the released files themselves. “These tools are a really great opportunity for being better at what you’re bad at, but being 10 times better at what you’re good at,” Levy told Samir in an interview. **Reception: **The podcast reached No. 1 on the UK podcast charts last week, but some listeners have criticized the podcast for using generative AI. “I don’t think it’s fair to say that traditional journalism can’t handle this case while also referencing traditional journalism several times in every episode,” one commenter said [on Spotify](https://open.spotify.com/episode/0vJZFkQDvNNjoNCJX8C0ZY?si=9716c3a4f341464f). **Looking ahead:** Levy used the success of _The Epstein Files_ to launch _War Desk_, a vibecoded podcast covering the war in Iran, and plans to add more shows to the mix. “My goal is to build a net of all this IP,” Levy said. “[I want to] build the next great media company.” **Samir’s take: **“I can feel it as a creator when I have something that I honestly want to say versus something that I know will strategically do well.” Samir said. “Operating strategically is getting less interesting because, whether I create it or not, [the idea] will just get made. So it pushes me ask, ‘Who am I as a creative that an AI model couldn’t replicate?’” View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # What New Leadership at Fox Entertainment Tells Us About Creators x Hollywood View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/f751a2e6-953a-4d73-a6b2-5a853cb7fda4/0320_Article_Photo_2.png?t=1774024157) Caption: Billy Parks joins Fox Entertainment as head of Fox Creator Studios /[ IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm12810204/) "Everything I've been doing since I left college led me to this role." That’s what former Slow Ventures partner [Billy Parks](https://www.linkedin.com/in/billyfilm/) told us about taking the helm at Fox Entertainment as the head of Fox Creator Studios, a new branch dedicated to producing digital-first formats with creators. **Breaking down the business:**  * Fox Creator Studios announced its first slate of content in January with an emphasis on food creators like [Rosanna Pansino](https://deadline.com/2026/01/fox-creator-studios-launches-food-gordon-ramsay-rosanna-pansino-1236668695/).  * Parks joined the team in March, with the goal of developing creator-led IP across Fox’s digital, streaming, and broadcast channels. He previously worked at Slow Ventures (which has backed creators like [Steven Bartlett](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/why-this-podcaster-is-worth-425m) and [Jonathan Katz-Moses](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/how-to-build-a-10m-business-579412306a714c86)) and The Chernin Group (which has invested in [Doug DeMuro](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/doug-demuro-s-675m-car-empire)).  “Creators today are modern production companies with scaled audiences, and we’re focused on partnering with these entrepreneurs looking to unlock new growth opportunities," Parks told us.  **Big picture:** Fox Entertainment tapping a leader with an extensive creator background is further proof that the industry’s convergence with Hollywood has already happened. Already, Fox Corporation has made successful creator content through its subsidiary [Tubi (](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/digital/tubi-creator-development-deal-tiktok-1236536929/)which recently signed a development deal with TikTok to produce creator shows). **How we see it: **For Fox Entertainment, working with creators could deliver more of what legacy media needs: built-in distribution with an engaged audience, new production models, and speed to market. Creators, for their part, can tap into studios’ resources (like bigger production and marketing budgets and more robust ad sales strategies). With creators and Hollywood each plugging gaps for one another, we expect to see more moves like this in the near future. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: Sponsored by [Adobe](https://blog.adobe.com/en/publish/2026/03/10/image-editing-just-got-smarter-with-ai-photoshop-firefly) # Adobe Expands with New AI Capabilities View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/3a79cfef-77d9-483b-a487-1ec12aba5dde/Firefly_Custom_Models_-_Hero_Image.webp?t=1774022932) Follow image link: (https://blog.adobe.com/en/publish/2026/03/10/image-editing-just-got-smarter-with-ai-photoshop-firefly) Caption: Adobe is expanding **Firefly** into a more powerful creative AI studio for image and video creation, introducing **[new generative capabilities](https://blog.adobe.com/en/publish/2026/03/19/adobe-firefly-expands-video-image-creation-with-new-ai-capabilities-custom-models)**[ and ](https://blog.adobe.com/en/publish/2026/03/19/adobe-firefly-expands-video-image-creation-with-new-ai-capabilities-custom-models)**[Custom Models](https://blog.adobe.com/en/publish/2026/03/19/adobe-firefly-expands-video-image-creation-with-new-ai-capabilities-custom-models)** that let you produce content in your own unique style. This is part of a broader expansion of Firefly - creators can now work with more than 30 top models from across the industry, including Google’s Nano Banana 2, Veo 3.1 and Runway’s Gen-4.5.  Firefly brings these models together in a single creative environment. It’s the only place where you can generate with one model, refine with another, compare outputs and continue editing using Adobe’s professional creative tools. As creators, you’re stretched thin enough. Post-production only makes matters worse. But Adobe is changing that with even more updates. **AI Assistant in Photoshop** lets you describe the edit you want. Change backgrounds, remove distractions, or fix lighting through simple conversation with AI. **Firefly Image Editor** now includes generative fill, remove, expand, upscale, and background removal in one streamlined workspace. These are live now. Photoshop Firefly customers can currently access unlimited generations. [Learn more ](https://blog.adobe.com/en/publish/2026/03/10/image-editing-just-got-smarter-with-ai-photoshop-firefly)[here](https://here.As). View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Got 100K Followers? Facebook Wants You View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/1af912b5-b1cb-4414-aa54-8a6da1ba120b/0320_Article_Photo_3.png?t=1774022803) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Meta launches the Creator Fast Track program to encourage established creators from other platforms to post on Facebook / [Meta](https://about.fb.com/news/2026/03/creator-fast-track-grow-your-audience-earn-money-on-facebook/) In an effort to entice established creators to the platform, Facebook just rolled out its new [Creator Fast Track](https://about.fb.com/news/2026/03/creator-fast-track-grow-your-audience-earn-money-on-facebook/) program. Creators with over 100K followers on TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube are eligible for Fast Track, which gives them:  * Access to boosted posts * Automatic acceptance into Facebook’s monetization program * $1K per month for three months (creators with over 1 million followers receive $3K per month) **Zoom out:** Facebook’s audience [skews](https://www.statista.com/statistics/187549/facebook-distribution-of-users-age-group-usa/?srsltid=AfmBOoq-1WjNayj1DqSgbJguf3ktUq7HimYhQb9TAJkWDJehzewESSSl) [older](https://www.statista.com/statistics/325587/instagram-global-age-group/), and users spend [less time](https://www.statista.com/statistics/1301075/us-daily-time-spent-social-media-platforms/) on the platform than they do on TikTok, YouTube and Instagram. Facebook’s strategy to incentivize more original content—and more engaged audiences? It paid creators almost $3 billion last year, up 35% from 2024, and it’s debuting features that [deprioritize](https://about.fb.com/news/2026/03/rewarding-original-creators-on-facebook/) spammy content. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [TBPN](https://deadline.com/2026/03/tbpn-emmy-campaign-1236758578/) launches an Emmy campaign for the Emerging Media Program category. * [Meta](https://mashable.com/article/meta-horizon-worlds-vr-dead-metaverse) is shutting down VR access to its Horizon Worlds this summer. * [Search engine Kagi](https://translate.kagi.com/) releases a “LinkedIn speak” translator. * Apple Creator Studio brings the best creative apps for film, music, design, and more together in one subscription. [Try your first month free](https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.443037516;dc_trk_aid=636185463;dc_trk_cid=248691022;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=$%7BGDPR%7D;gdpr_consent=$%7BGDPR_CONSENT_755%7D;ltd=;dc_tdv=1). Then pay just $12.99 a month.* * [Cannes Film Festival](https://variety.com/2026/film/global/cannes-marche-du-film-launch-creator-economy-summit-1236694130/) is hosting a creator economy summit on May 17. * [Sports creator Florian Marliere](https://www.bbc.com/sport/rugby-union/articles/c5ylpjv8dzwo) buys the broadcast rights to France’s premiere rugby league. _*This is sponsored content_ View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 📚️ Thank You for Pressing Publish _The content we’re looking forward to reading, watching, and listening to this weekend._ * **Read:** For his personal Substack, _Subway Takes_’ [Kareem Rahma](https://kareemrahma.substack.com/p/do-not-launch-a-new-short-form-unscripted?r=1d5a6&utm_medium=ios&fbclid=PAZnRzaAQn3gpleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA8xMjQwMjQ1NzQyODc0MTQAAaen1U-FCDaZRwF-NwDvZbjvXw1rRXqkIVEzP86sItkIUTsaCwY20qMl0B17Bg_aem_WaEtDYQ9F1ZGXwquJp8lYQ&triedRedirect=true) muses on the oversaturation of short-form interview shows. * **Watch:** Design creator [Simone Giertz](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tm3DLUAhAzI) unveils her latest Kickstarter project: a chair designed for your half-dirty clothes. * **Listen:** After being diagnosed with stage four pancreatic cancer, former US Senator Ben Sasse starts the _[Not Dead Yet](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/conan-obrien/id1877948649?i=1000752885862)_[ podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/conan-obrien/id1877948649?i=1000752885862), where he interviews figures like Conan O’Brien on living a full life on borrowed time. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/this-1-podcast-is-ai-generated

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7daedf08-010d-46ca-868c-761dbb5ed67d/0318_Header.png?t=1773849419) Follow image link: (https://www.shopify.com/shop-pay?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=cpm&utm_campaign=2026-03-b847-p-publishshoppay&utm_content=bae-&utm_term=) Caption: **Good morning.** ICYMI, we’re surveying creators to learn more about their revenue. If you’re a creator…and you earn revenue…and you have 30 seconds…you know what to do. Take our survey (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeUusk83EKasu5hkTiGUfJ6pCnNJHkphq7w06Z_nokZNJ0BeA/viewform?usp=dialog) — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: **Today’s lineup:** 1) An education creator returns to his 6.6 million subscribers 2) Two YouTube strategists tell us how brands think like creators 3) An AI creator launches a product studio View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Why Tom Scott Is Coming Back to Video View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a5ffd85b-2a4a-42ee-9c34-3f33ebcbb1d1/0318_Article_Photo_1.png?t=1773849548) Caption: Tom Scott returns to content with a 39-episode series on Nebula and YouTube / [Nebula](https://nebula.tv/tomscott?tab=episodes) After a [two-year hiatus](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7DKv5H5Frt0) from posting videos, education creator Tom Scott is back with _[England](https://nebula.tv/tomscott?tab=episodes)_, a 39-episode series roadtripping through every county in the country. **Why he left:** After uploading weekly [travel](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bu5-VERN3XY) and [education](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yWYkoZKHLfg) videos for a decade, Scott stepped back from his 6.6 million YouTube subscribers. At the time, he said he wasn’t ready to expand his business at the rate it was demanding. Over the course of his two-year break, he continued his podcast game show _[Lateral](https://open.spotify.com/show/1TthQOE4Fx6gBPW8l48cfN?si=6dbfd707c3994afd)_ and released a corresponding [book](https://lateralcast.com/book/). **Why he’s coming back now:** “The absolute best part of my job was going to see interesting places and meeting interesting people. That's what I'd want to do anyway, without any audience,” Scott told us via email. “I found a format that works, and the alternative was not doing it.” * Starting March 23, Scott’s videos will premiere weekly on creator-owned streaming service [Nebula](https://nebula.tv/?utm_campaign=unions-just-challenged-a-major-creator-studio&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=news.thepublishpress.com), marking the [second series](https://nebula.tv/tom-scott-presents-money) he’s premiered on the platform. * Episodes will air on YouTube one week later. He said he chose to cross-post to serve the YouTube fans who’ve been with him for years. “It's the best version of my old format, but updated for 2026 and for a world where people watch half-hour videos on big television screens instead of two-minute videos on desktop computers,” Scott said. “39 episodes is a big swing in itself: If this crashes and burns after three weeks, the rest of the year's going to be really awkward,” Scott said. “But if it succeeds: I guess I'll figure out what's next.” View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Creator Jobs: The 18-Year-Old Helping Brands Think Like Creators View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/20751920-4bae-45df-87b7-accd6aaedeb8/0318_Article_Photo_2.png?t=1773849606) Caption: Dimcha Aiwi (left) and Max Behrens (right) design thumbnails and package videos for creators and brands / [Dimcha Aiwi](https://www.linkedin.com/in/dimchadzn/), [Max Behrens](https://www.linkedin.com/in/neoxvisions/) Germany-based YouTube strategists [Max Behrens](https://www.linkedin.com/in/neoxvisions/) and [Dimcha Aiwi](https://www.linkedin.com/in/dimchadzn/) have worked on video packaging for the internet’s biggest creators: Nick DiGiovanni, the Stokes Twins, Jesser—contributing to over 4 billion views at just 18 and 20 years old, respectively. Now they’re helping global brands think like creators, too. **The key difference?** Brands like Nike, Red Bull, and Disney are **spending considerably more** with consultants like Aiwi and Behrens than creators are, Behrens told us. **Here’s why:** It’s all about the target audience age. “[For the Stokes Twins], the audience would be ages five to 15. Whereas a brand could be aged 20, all the way to 70,” Behrens told us. What works for one—highly exaggerated thumbnails, for example—doesn’t work for the other. And brands are eager to make YouTube work.  * Until mid-2025, Behrens said he noticed that brands mostly posted commercials.  * But recently, companies have started producing videos that could take months or years to make—even if they cost more than they earn.  * Why? _Strengthening their bond with consumers._ “I don't think [Red Bull] wants to make any money specifically off of YouTube,” Behrens said. “They just want to gain more trust and a better relationship with their audience.” **What this means for creators:** With Behrens and Aiwi’s help optimizing their content for YouTube, Red Bull has gone from averaging 1 million views per video in 2021 to 9.6 million in 2025. As brands start thinking about video more in terms of original series (like Nike’s [Comfort Zones](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R76jQbKExcI&t=63s)) than simple commercial plugs, could they begin to rival creators on platforms like YouTube? Let us know what you think by **hitting reply**. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: Sponsored by [Shopify](https://www.shopify.com/shop-pay?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=cpm&utm_campaign=2026-03-b847-p-publishshoppay&utm_content=bae-&utm_term=) # Why 40% of Our Customers Use Shop Pay View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2382b8dd-2d89-4d38-a1b8-28ecbe428244/Full_GIF.gif?t=1773849770) Follow image link: (https://www.shopify.com/shop-pay?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=cpm&utm_campaign=2026-03-b847-p-publishshoppay&utm_content=bae-&utm_term=) Caption: When you’re running an online store, it should be as easy as possible to make a purchase. Enter: **[Shop Pay](https://www.shopify.com/shop-pay?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=cpm&utm_campaign=2026-03-b847-p-publishshoppay&utm_content=bae-&utm_term=)****.** Shop Pay saves a customer’s payment and shipping information, so their next purchase takes just one tap. It works across channels, including Facebook and Instagram, helping you reach your customers more efficiently. We asked Shopify’s AI business partner [Sidekick](https://www.shopify.com/sidekick?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=cpm&utm_campaign=2026-03-b847-p-publishsidekick&utm_content=bae-&utm_term=) how customers of The Publish Press use Shop Pay. * 40%+ of customers check out with Shop Pay. * 43% of Shop Pay customers have made repeat purchases. We even have one loyal customer who has placed **six orders** with Shop Pay. Adding Shop Pay makes checkout faster and it makes customers more likely to come back to your store. [Try it out with a free trial of Shopify](https://www.shopify.com/shop-pay?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=cpm&utm_campaign=2026-03-b847-p-publishshoppay&utm_content=bae-&utm_term=). View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Inside CatGPT’s New Production Studio View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/44fa61de-170f-4ec3-91fa-a3b3478358a6/0318_Article_Photo_3.png?t=1773849852) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: CatGPT (right) launches creator-led product studio Cat Labs / [Cat Labs](https://catlabs.studio/), [CatGPT](https://www.askcatgpt.com/#about) On the heels of her [Physical Phones](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/ai-creator-bets-big-on-landlines) product launch, AI education creator Catherine “[CatGPT](https://www.instagram.com/askcatgpt/?hl=en)” Goetze’s next venture is [Cat Labs](https://l.gourl.es/l/0d6066afda3fcd7714f8807d0a987f758a0cb714?w=c3lkQHB1Ymxpc2hwcm9qZWN0cy5jb20&u=12029390): a production studio where coders and builders can collaborate with her on ecommerce projects. We got an exclusive peek under the hood. **Here’s how it works:** * Goetze is [searching](https://l.gourl.es/l/2ace1ea0ffa9f1736cf617c0d7a86ece34f8e2b3?w=c3lkQHB1Ymxpc2hwcm9qZWN0cy5jb20&u=12029390) for a cohort of AI and vibecoding “tinkerers” who are willing to document their production processes for Goetze’s social channels starting this summer.  * All participants in the program will receive either equity in the products they make or a cut of the revenue, though Goetze is still solidifying how the payout model will work. * The Los Angeles Cat Labs studio will serve as a coworking space for teams working on both ecommerce products and the content being made about them. * Goetze is leading the creator charge right now, but she said she aims to open the program to matching other creators with builders to help them develop new projects.  **Who she’s looking for:** “We're getting people who love to build, maybe don't have their own media presence, but are totally open to the idea of being on camera,” Goetze told us. **Big picture:** Shared creator studios and production spaces are becoming more common (for example: our team at The Publish Press is based out of The Lighthouse in Venice). The difference with Cat Labs? Goetze is offering an opportunity for participants to earn with the studio. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Theo Von](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DV8nGw4kYO0/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==) drops the trailer for his movie, _Busboys_, directed by creator Jonah Feingold. * [FIFA and YouTube](https://blog.youtube/news-and-events/fifa-world-cup-2026-youtube-partnership/) announce a partnership for the World Cup. * [The state of Arizona](https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/17/technology/arizona-criminal-charges-kalshi.html?partner=slack&smid=sl-share) files a lawsuit against Kalshi for illegal gambling practices. * Apple Creator Studio brings the best creative apps for film, music, design, and more together in one subscription. [Try your first month free](https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.439121415;dc_trk_aid=632188090;dc_trk_cid=248691022;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=$%7BGDPR%7D;gdpr_consent=$%7BGDPR_CONSENT_755%7D;ltd=;dc_tdv=1). Then pay just $12.99 a month.* * [Comedy creator Jason Levin](https://x.com/iamjasonlevin/status/2033548673947402278?s=20) is renting out an NYC movie theater to watch Instagram Reels on April 1. _*This is sponsored content_ View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/why-tom-scott-came-back

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/716495bd-0178-47db-bbe7-d0f029f60d71/0316_Header.png?t=1773677596) Follow image link: (https://go.recraft.ai/Publish_Press) Caption: **Good morning.** Ever wondered how much your fellow creators make in a year? So have we. That’s why we’re running an anonymous survey on creator revenue. It takes less than 30 seconds, and we’d love to hear from you about how (and where) you make money as a creator. Take the survey here (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeUusk83EKasu5hkTiGUfJ6pCnNJHkphq7w06Z_nokZNJ0BeA/viewform?usp=publish-editor) **Hit reply** with any questions. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: **Today’s lineup:** 1) A skincare brand gives three teen creators equity 2) A Nigeria-based health creator explains why he doesn’t earn revenue on TikTok 3) One creator shares the behind-the-scenes of his mid-length vertical videos View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Gen Alpha Creators Take Equity in Skincare Company View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/1b18eff3-a3e0-45ac-b7fc-d7f4aba1fccf/0316_Article_Photo_1.png?t=1773677007) Caption: (Left to right) Evereden CEO Kimberly Ho names Gen Alpha creators Kaili Asa, Embreigh Courtlyn, and Madison Rae shareholders in the company / [Kimberly Ho](https://www.beautyindependent.com/family-skincare-brand-evereden-raises-32m-series-c-funding-sephora-launch/), [Evereden](https://www.instagram.com/everedenbrand/) We can just imagine what parents in 2066 will tell their teenage kids: “When I was your age, I already had equity in a $100 million skincare brand.” [Kimberly Ho](https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberley-h/), CEO of skincare brand [Evereden](https://www.ever-eden.com/collections/new-kids-hair-care-collection?utm_source=google&utm_medium=google_paid&utm_campaign=Digicom_PerformanceMax_NEW_CatchAll&utm_content=%7CKids_HairLine&utm_term=&gadid=&tw_source=google&tw_adid=&tw_campaign=23641151406&utm_source=google&utm_medium=google_paid&utm_campaign=Digicom_PerformanceMax_NEW_CatchAll&utm_content=%7CKids_HairLine&utm_term=&gadid=&tw_source=google&tw_adid=&tw_campaign=23641151406&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23651213479&gbraid=0AAAAAC_8uumWJXt5-fbv_lo3642om2VhA&gclid=Cj0KCQjwsdnNBhC4ARIsAA_3heiPfpyxY0dXo4ZFwH3WoayL3MCaH7pXb6xkVZgw3SYCg7LXWq0sAJsaAoJrEALw_wcB), shared that she gave equity in the company to three Gen Alpha creators—[Madison Rae](https://www.instagram.com/missmadison.rae) (14), [Embreigh Courtlyn](https://www.tiktok.com/@embreighcourtlyn) (15), and [Kaili Asa](https://www.tiktok.com/@asabasics) (17)—as part of the company’s Generation E campaign. **Here’s why: **“If we had just wanted the popular Gen Alpha creators to post about us in a paid influencer capacity, we [could have done] that without equity,” Ho [told ](https://www.glossy.co/beauty/evereden-co-founder-and-ceo-kimberley-ho-on-giving-equity-to-gen-alpha/?utm_source=owm.beehiiv.com&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=a-100m-brand-just-made-a-14-year-old-a-shareholder&_bhlid=438caa25a7bf67050298f6f7f713b73dbdc0de75#:~:text=And%20so%2C%20by%20partnering%20with%20Gen%20Alpha,creating%20a%20new%20blueprint%20for%20how%20modern)_[Glossy](https://www.glossy.co/beauty/evereden-co-founder-and-ceo-kimberley-ho-on-giving-equity-to-gen-alpha/?utm_source=owm.beehiiv.com&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=a-100m-brand-just-made-a-14-year-old-a-shareholder&_bhlid=438caa25a7bf67050298f6f7f713b73dbdc0de75#:~:text=And%20so%2C%20by%20partnering%20with%20Gen%20Alpha,creating%20a%20new%20blueprint%20for%20how%20modern)_. “I think giving equity means aligning long-term interests, and it really shows our commitment to listening to Gen Alpha and inviting them to have a seat at the table.” **About the new co-owners:** While Madison typically posts “get ready with me” and [hair transition](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPpEO6Rj99j/) videos to her 272K followers, Embreigh (7.5M) and Kaili’s (995K) content is reminiscent of Charli D’Amelio—a mix of [dance](https://www.tiktok.com/@asabasics/video/7617237015326690591) and [lifestyle](https://www.tiktok.com/@embreighcourtlyn/video/7610532386169785613) content geared toward other teenage girls. “You guys are going to see the behind-the-scenes of all of the product development, new launches, and I’m going to be able to take you guys along the whole entire journey,” Embreigh said in an [announcement video](https://www.tiktok.com/@embreighcourtlyn/video/7611378695814647053). **Zoom out:** As skincare explodes in popularity [among Gen Alpha](https://www.forbes.com/sites/sboyd/2025/10/27/how-beauty-brands-are-marketing-to-gen-alpha-consumers/), creators like 16-year-old Salish Matter have launched their own skincare lines to massive success. Will Evereden’s decision to give its ambassadors equity set a precedent for future brand deals with young creators? View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Why This Featured Creator Doesn’t Make Money on TikTok View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/042c9532-9c68-459f-9913-02bf0ae6ef20/0316_Article_Photo_2.png?t=1773677094) Caption: Dr. Olawale Ogunlana, AKA "Doctor Wales," is hopeful for TikTok monetization for sub-Saharan African creators / [Olawale](https://www.instagram.com/p/DVS8QFLiE9Y/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) [Ogunlana](https://www.instagram.com/p/DR7eJTeiGeF/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) Lagos, Nigeria-based medical creator Dr. Olawale “[Doctor Wales](https://www.tiktok.com/@doctorwalesmd)” Ogunlana was [recently featured](https://newsroom.tiktok.com/discover-list-2026-meet-the-creators-to-watch?lang=en) on TikTok’s 2026 Discover List for his public health videos. But he won’t earn platform revenue from his content. We spoke with Ogunlana to understand why ➡️ **Quick context:** “At the very beginning when I started my own journey as a creator, most of the content coming out of sub-Saharan Africa was entertainment based,” Ogunlana told us. “So we decided to challenge that narrative a little bit.” **Enter: Doctor Wales. **Nigeria has a doctor-to-patient ratio of 1 to 9,083 (compared to the US’s 1 to 396). Ogunlana started making [general health content](https://www.tiktok.com/@doctorwalesmd/video/7542434507324951814) as a way to address the [medical knowledge gap](https://www.tiktok.com/@doctorwalesmd/video/7584009520758672660) in the country—eventually founding his own platform to host doctor-created content. **But: **Despite being recognized as a top creator on TikTok, Ogunlana is unable to earn revenue from his content—no countries in Africa are eligible for TikTok’s monetization program. “There is really nothing to fall back on. When you crash, you literally crash. So it can be really difficult saying you want to be a creator without doing something else on the side,” Ogunlana said. **So how does he make money?** 80–90% of Ogunlana’s revenue comes from brand partnerships with Nigerian brands like [Golden Terra cooking oil](https://www.tiktok.com/@embreighcourtlyn/video/7610532386169785613) or government-sponsored [health insurance](https://www.tiktok.com/@doctorwalesmd/video/7599588044349476117). The rest of his earnings come from monetization on other platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and X. **Looking ahead: **As African creators across niches—from [cooking](https://www.tiktok.com/@saute_with_trevor?utm_source=news.thepublishpress.com&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=beauty-brand-gives-gen-alpha-equity) to [interior design](https://www.tiktok.com/@cheriekihato?utm_source=news.thepublishpress.com&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=beauty-brand-gives-gen-alpha-equity)—expand their audiences and reach, Ogunlana sees TikTok monetization for creators in sub-Saharan Africa on the horizon. He said he’s optimistic that being featured by the platform is a step to getting financial recognition for his work. The platform is making strides toward connecting with creators in the region, like its recent [internet safety summit](https://newsroom.tiktok.com/?lang=en-ZA&tag=community) in Kenya. “I know that five years from now, those that are coming behind me as creators will definitely be living off of the benefits that we've advocated for,” Ogunlana said. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: Sponsored by [Recraft](https://go.recraft.ai/Publish_Press) # Your Content Is Compelling. Your Branding Should Be, Too View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a99037e9-25b7-4585-8e2f-fd713e30c844/V4_0.webp?t=1773677633) Follow image link: (https://go.recraft.ai/Publish_Press) Caption: As a creator, your brand requires visuals that carry the same substance as your content. The challenge? Finding the design tools capable of meeting the standard you need. [Recraft V4](https://go.recraft.ai/Publish_Press) was built exactly for that standard. Get professional-grade output without the professional-grade turnaround times. This AI accelerates your workflow, taking your designs from concept to completion in seconds. * Need photorealistic imagery? Recraft V4 and V4 Pro deliver accurate lighting, anatomy, and real-world texture. * Building out brand assets? V4 and V4 Pro Vector create crisp logos and illustrations that look sharp at any size, in any format. See why millions of users across 200+ countries (including teams at HubSpot and Asana) choose Recraft. [Try the new V4 family of models in Recraft Studio for free today](https://go.recraft.ai/Publish_Press). View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Is the Mid-Length Video Dead? Not on TikTok View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/9b6b656e-0131-465e-97bf-b1e613adff90/0316_Article_Photo_3.png?t=1773677665) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Brad Bradie creates mid-length videos making food from unconventional ingredients / [Brad](https://www.tiktok.com/@bradbradie/video/7602454111790910750?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7560544880226289166) [Bra](https://www.tiktok.com/@bradbradie/video/7613847555037859102?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7560544880226289166)[die](https://www.tiktok.com/@bradbradie/video/7614892434580868383?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7560544880226289166) UCLA senior [Brad Bradie](https://www.tiktok.com/@bradbradie?lang=en) is going viral on TikTok for eight-minute videos where he pulls a “reverse Nara Smith”—[making food](https://www.tiktok.com/@bradbradie/video/7613847555037859102?lang=en) out of ingredients from gas stations and [sampling the pies](https://www.tiktok.com/@bradbradie/video/7603656797198503199?lang=en) from Ace Hardware.  **Bradie is bucking the format norm **and finding an audience for his mid-length content _solely on TikTok_. **Why only there?** “I've been trying to post on YouTube Shorts, but they have a cap of three minutes,” Bradie told us. Plus, the average length of videos is shortening to [favor high engagement](https://www.emarketer.com/content/vertical-video-breaks-publisher-switch-short-form-video) on YouTube. “I can't post most of my new videos over that and I like filming in vertical. So I'm limited to TikTok.” **Big picture:** With TikTok’s creator program, videos can only be monetized if they are longer than 60 seconds—motivating creators to make longer videos. Dating creator [Jezabel](https://www.tiktok.com/@jezacat) and comedy creator [Princess Milky](https://www.tiktok.com/@princess_milkyy/video/7609852036301065486) have optimized their storytelling content for a model that favors mid-length videos, seeing increased engagement as a result. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 👀 Creator Jobs * **MrBeast** is hiring an [executive assistant](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2243913-executive-assistant) based in Greenville, NC, to manage schedules and plan travel for execs. * **Esports creator Vindooly** is looking for an experienced [content manager](https://x.com/Vindooly/status/2031249238525620543) to run production and oversee a team of editors and thumbnail designers. * **The Best One Yet (TBOY)**** **is hiring a [freelance script writer](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2238164-freelance-scriptwriter-evergreen-youtube-explainer-series-finance-business-and-investing) to write long-form YouTube scripts on finance-related topics.  View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Linktree](https://linktr.ee/help/en/articles/5434857-how-to-display-a-youtube-video-playlist-or-channel-on-your-linktree) launches an integration with YouTube playlists. * [Facebook](https://about.fb.com/news/2026/03/rewarding-original-creators-on-facebook/) says it’s de-prioritizing “unoriginal content” on user’s feeds. * [The Oscars](https://x.com/pubity/status/2033381290515321252?s=20) jokes about MrBeast hosting the awards ahead of the program moving to YouTube in 2029. * [Keith Lee](https://variety.com/2026/digital/news/keith-lee-video-podcast-vox-media-1236682614/) is launching a weekly food podcast with Vox Media. * [Good Mythical Morning](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ZenZAqIVqk) uploads its 3,000th episode. * [YouTube](https://x.com/nealmohan/status/2032502072403501270?s=20) allows creators to upload thumbnails up to 50MB (previously 2MB). View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/100m-brand-gives-equity-to-teen-creators

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/48075baa-5eee-4f22-800f-c3673b8a57f7/0313_Header.png?t=1773415937) Follow image link: (https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.439123404;dc_trk_aid=632186965;dc_trk_cid=248621279;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=${GDPR};gdpr_consent=${GDPR_CONSENT_755};ltd=;dc_tdv=1) Caption: **Good morning.** It may be Friday the 13th, but we’re feeling lucky anyways because Emma Chamberlain is opening her second brick-and-mortar coffee shop a few blocks away from our office. Our wallets, on the other hand, might as well have stepped under a ladder. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: **In today’s issue…** 1) A YouTube channel and talent company partner to build the next MTV 2) The creators to look for at the Oscars 3) YouTube rolls out a new ad feature View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Lyrical Lemonade Expands Media Network View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/653a0399-42dc-4415-974e-b35e39f46391/0313_Article_Photo_1.png?t=1773415960) Caption: Cole Bennett's (left) Lyrical Lemonade is the first creative partner for Whalar Group's new production arm, Lighthouse Studios, which will expand programming across creator's channels / [Photography ](https://www.instagram.com/p/CyWgweuPCkS/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==)by [Noah Keckler](https://www.instagram.com/noahkeckler/), [Lighthouse Studios](https://variety.com/2026/digital/news/lyrical-lemonade-cole-bennett-lighthouse-whalar-akshay-1236683156/) Music video channel [Lyrical Lemonade](https://www.youtube.com/@lyricalemonade) is expanding its media company, Lyrical Lemonade TV (LLTV), to a twice-daily YouTube network in partnership with [Lighthouse Studios](https://www.thelighthouse.com/), the new production arm of talent management company Whalar Group. **The squeeze: **Lyrical, [founded by](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/finance-creators-top-charts) creator and director Cole Bennett, has amassed a following of 24 million subscribers in 13 years from its music videos featuring rappers from [Drake](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DGVjmJpCRUg&list=RDDGVjmJpCRUg&start_radio=1) to [Lil Yachty](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kbtHS2xP-Yo&list=RDkbtHS2xP-Yo&start_radio=1).  Lyrical is headquartered in Chicago, where it films LLTV’s popular series_ _[_Lunch Break Freestyle_](https://youtu.be/Bq0unLRoUCQ?si=DtobFym5CccaapqZ)_ _featuring rappers and their lunch. With Lighthouse Studios, LLTV will film in NYC and LA, expanding its original programming to include travel, food, and a late night show. Lighthouse Studios will provide capital, production support, and strategy. **Why upload twice a day? **To create a routine among viewers. Lyrical Lemonade TV CEO Joseph Rocha told us the brand’s TV viewership has increased over 200% in the last year. “We know what our audience is looking for. We’ll test and learn too—even for the [late night show]. That show will be a 15-20 minute show which is what we see works really well for us on YouTube,” Rocha told us. **Zoom out:** Lyrical is Lighthouse Studios’ first creative partner in building a network slate across creator’s channels. The goal is to deliver unscripted videos across channels seven days a week, ranging from five minutes to an hour long. CEO of Lighthouse Studios [Akshay Mehta](https://www.linkedin.com/in/akshay-mehta-16924217/) told us creators with a loyal audience is what makes this era of TV viewing different from the linear broadcast era. “We thought about it as a meaningful commitment to content with creators at the top, middle, and bottom of it,” Mehta said. “It’s also a recognizable content structure. We want to take the space that network TV is fleeing from and build audiences with true engagement with these creators.” View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Creators Take on the Oscars View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/4252134a-158b-493b-96e8-a749ce687369/0313_Article_Photo_2.png?t=1773415998) Caption: Amelia Dimoldenberg (right) hosts a special edition of 'Chicken Shop Date' with Academy Awards nominees like Teyana Taylor (left) / [Amelia Dimoldenberg](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DVoYxTZjbiw/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) Creators from all corners of the internet are joining in on the 98th Academy Awards—some for the first time. **Here’s what you should look out for on Sunday →** Before the show, **Amelia Dimoldenberg** will be the Academy Awards’ official social media host and red carpet correspondent for the third year in a row. She also hosted a [special edition](https://www.instagram.com/p/DVoYxTZjbiw/?hl=en) of _Chicken Shop Date_ with nominated actors at the pre-Oscars luncheon.  During the ceremony, film commentary creators including [Karsten Runquist](http://youtube.com/post/UgkxJG4G4xDOZ8cmeIjVm48sXF7YGOoufBnp?si=IpPGL9fiQgVp7nK7) and _What Went Wrong_ podcast hosts [Lizzie Bassett and Chris Winterbauer](https://www.patreon.com/cw/whatwentwrongpodcast) will livestream reactions to the Academy Awards. After the main program, **Quen Blackwell**, **Brittany Broski**, and **Jake Shane** [will report](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jje-n79k-W8) from the _Vanity Fair_ Oscar party red carpet.  **Big (motion) picture:** The Oscars are on a five-year [viewing high](https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/news/oscars-abc-hulu-ratings/), with 19.5 million people tuning in last year. Creators may help keep momentum as the program [moves to](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/and-the-oscars-go-to) YouTube in 2029. **Got an Oscars hot take?** Hit reply and The Publish Press’ cinephile Syd will let you know if she agrees or disagrees. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: Sponsored by [Apple Creator Studio](https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.439123404;dc_trk_aid=632186965;dc_trk_cid=248621279;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=${GDPR};gdpr_consent=${GDPR_CONSENT_755};ltd=;dc_tdv=1) # All Your Creative Tools Working Together View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/479b9ad4-c125-4234-b792-0cdf5e2cf3b3/1200x700_APPS_Press_Publish_Primary_Newsletter_Placement_Custom1x.webp?t=1773414542) Follow image link: (https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.439123404;dc_trk_aid=632186965;dc_trk_cid=248621279;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=${GDPR};gdpr_consent=${GDPR_CONSENT_755};ltd=;dc_tdv=1) Caption: Apple Creator Studio brings together the best of Apple’s apps on Mac and iPad for video, music, design, and productivity into one low-priced subscription. * Final Cut Pro gives you smarter, faster ways to craft and cut captivating videos. * Pixelmator Pro lets you reimagine images, create striking graphics, paint, draw, illustrate, and more. * Logic Pro helps you produce music and perfect audio—bringing brilliance to every beat. * Supercharged productivity apps bring intelligent features to help you get more done in Keynote, Pages, and Numbers. With Apple Creator Studio, it’s all yours for the making. [Start creating now with a free trial](https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.439123404;dc_trk_aid=632186965;dc_trk_cid=248621279;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=${GDPR};gdpr_consent=${GDPR_CONSENT_755};ltd=;dc_tdv=1). View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # YouTube Rolls Out Podcast Trending Page to Advertisers View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7c7bef70-4996-461f-b4fb-79806e001ed6/0313_Article_Photo_3.png?t=1773416031) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: YouTube curates a Top Podcast page for advertisers / [YouTube](https://blog.youtube/news-and-events/new-youtube-top-podcast-lineups-for-advertisers/) Yesterday, YouTube launched [Top Podcast pages](https://blog.youtube/news-and-events/new-youtube-top-podcast-lineups-for-advertisers/) for advertisers—allowing brands to buy spots across a selection of top performing shows in genres such as sports, true crime, and comedy. **Why it matters:** YouTube says that video podcast ad campaigns yield better results than audio only campaigns. By bundling podcast shows like YouTube does its [top channels](https://support.google.com/google-ads/answer/6030919?hl=en), advertisers gain insight into which podcasts perform well in their genre. **Worth noting:** On the creator side, YouTube [promised dynamic ads](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/youtube-levels-up) would be coming this year, but is not yet available to all creators. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Disney+](https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/news/verts-disney-plus/) launches a vertical feed. * [Golf creator Paige Spiranac](https://www.axios.com/2026/02/17/paige-spiranac-golf-paigeco-pro-shop) starts a media company with production studio Pro Shop. * [Independent Media Initiative is looking for a creator in every US state](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r0Lvvu_SQz8) to feature in its _Science Across America_ YouTube series. * [Adobe](https://fortune.com/2026/03/12/adobe-ceo-shantanu-narayen-stepping-down-after-18-years-pressure-deliver-ai/) CEO Shantanu Narayen is stepping down after 18 years at the company. * [Google](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-03-11/google-backs-animaj-studio-using-ai-to-make-content-for-kids-on-youtube?srnd=phx-technology&embedded-checkout=true) invests in an AI animation studio for kids, Animaj. * [Substack](https://on.substack.com/p/introducing-the-substack-recording) rolls out an in-app recording studio for creators. * [Billion Dollar Boy](https://www.fivetwonine.com/the-creator-fund-cannes-lions-2026?utm_source=scalablepod.com&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=no-a-creator-company-isn-t-going-to-be-the-next-disney&_bhlid=65dd4395062baa1eb8f5bb5da3f0315bfea2d363) launches a fund for creators to attend Cannes Lions. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 📚️ Thank You for Pressing Publish _The content we’re looking forward to reading, watching, and listening to this weekend._ * **Read:** For _Vox_, Alex Abad-Santos reports on the Redditor whose life’s mission is to share his [laundry technique](https://www.vox.com/life/481598/reddit-laundry-kismai-lipase-detergent-list-spa-day) with the world. * **Watch:** Almost Friday spoofs the internet’s favorite retired outdoor channel [Outdoor Boys](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-l_qCSUAjPc) with this long-form sketch. * **Listen:** Our own Syd Cohen makes her [first appearance](https://open.spotify.com/episode/6VLvkqf7XcraxEAIVnsdfT?si=ok48kEUFT3azFbCVKS2tjQ) on _The Colin and Samir Show_, testing Colin and Samir’s knowledge of the online term “Khia Asylum.”  View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/lyrical-lemonade-bets-big-on-youtube

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/b125b2a5-14b9-41ca-9b7a-5d0949e87f99/0311_Header_No_Sponsor.png?t=1773242784) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning. **Hidden Valley is hiring “Ranch-bassadors” to create content in Europe this summer as part of an eight-week salaried content program. So if we go dark in a couple months, you’ll know where to find us. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: **In today’s issue:** 1) Why a celeb traded streaming for YouTube 2) One VFX creator solves post-production’s most tedious issue 3) Roblox invests in creator developers View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Why This Hollywood Producer Is Moving to YouTube in 2027 View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a2b819a4-d77d-408c-8cc4-25c0b9df8ce1/0311_Article_Photo_1.png?t=1773242800) Caption: Phil Rosenthal's show 'Somebody Feed Phil' will premiere future episodes on YouTube / [Netflix](https://www.netflix.com/title/80146601#episodes) While creators across genres are taking their YouTube shows [to](https://www.netflix.com/title/82677668) [Netflix](https://www.netflix.com/title/82191481), multi-hyphenate writer, actor, and producer Phil Rosenthal is doing the opposite— taking his Netflix-exclusive show _Somebody Feed Phil_ to YouTube in 2027. **Behind the decision:** Rosenthal, most known for creating _Everybody Loves Raymond,_ is partnering with French production company Banijay to adapt the Netflix show to a new platform and reach a wider audience. Banijay has also [partnered with creators](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/mrbeast-wants-to-pay-you) to revive popular competition formats like _Minute to Win It_ for YouTube.  “One of the things I always loved about ‘Everybody Loves Raymond’ was that it was free to watch everywhere,” Rosenthal [told ](https://deadline.com/2026/03/somebody-feed-phil-moving-youtube-2027-1236748360/)_[Deadline](https://deadline.com/2026/03/somebody-feed-phil-moving-youtube-2027-1236748360/)_. “We are thrilled to announce that ‘Somebody Feed Phil’ will move to YouTube, where our message of family, friendship, food, travel and laughs can reach the most people.” The first eight seasons of _Somebody Feed Phil_ will remain on Netflix, but all new episodes will premiere on YouTube, along with short-form content. **Zoom out:** As Hollywood and the creator economy operate in the same entertainment system (a theme [we’re exploring](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/a-new-creator-summit-is-coming-to-la) at our upcoming summit, Press Publish LA), we have seen a slow trickle of traditional shows and events embracing the creator mindset. For example, Amy Poehler’s Golden Globes podcast win or YouTube’s acquisition of the [Academy Awards’ broadcast rights](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/and-the-oscars-go-to). Could Rosenthal’s move signal more talent moving off streaming platforms? View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Did This Creator Just Solve Green Screen Editing? View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/397f4edb-3208-401b-a6a3-72c9140962b1/0311_Article_Photo_2.png?t=1773242824) Caption: Corridor Crew's Niko Fueringer shares his improved green screen tools / [Corridor Crew](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Ploi723hg4) This week Corridor Crew co-founder Niko Fueringer released a [green screen tool](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Ploi723hg4), CorridorKey, that could save VFX creators hours in the edit. Plus? It’s free. **Catch up quick:** Most editing programs have a “rotoscoping” function—a tool that cuts out objects frame-by-frame, allowing VFX artists to replace the background. Artists may also use “chroma keying” to remove solid colored backgrounds (like green screens) from the video subject in the foreground.  **The problem:** “We’re still using the same tools that I used when I was in high school,” Fueringer said. “It should be better by now.” Most automatic keying and rotoscoping tools have a hard time cutting around heavy motion blur, transparent materials, or hair—leaving creators to manually adjust green screen footage.  Fueringer wanted to build an AI rotoscoping tool that would operate on the “professional level of quality” needed for Corridor Crew’s upcoming season of _Son of a Dungeon_.  **The solution:** Fueringer trained an AI model to scan for the problem areas on green screen footage that other rotoscope tools couldn’t—then uploaded [the program](https://github.com/nikopueringer/CorridorKey) to a hosting platform for free download.  **What users are saying:** * “If you work in VFX, this is pure gold for you,” AI creator ErickSky said [on X](https://x.com/ErickSky/status/2031110722516595053?s=20). * “Keying is not dead—it’s a very valuable skill for compositors,” VFX creator Compositing Academy said [on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abNygtFqYR8&t=1s). “It’s really great to have additional tools [...] Any addition to speed up our work is great.” * “Local training on your hardware with your own training footage,” one commenter said. “That's the kind of ethical AI I like.” View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Roblox Launches Creator Mentor Programs View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/272c8ed0-12f5-4d7d-b074-65ca9e8b146a/0311_Article_Photo_3.png?t=1773242867) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Developers creating games for Roblox earned $1.5 billion last year / [Roblox](https://about.roblox.com/press-kit) Roblox paid out $1.5 billion to developers last year, with game creators as young as 19 making up to [$4 million per year](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-03-06/roblox-s-teen-millionaires-are-disrupting-the-gaming-industry?cmpid=screentime&utm_campaign=screentime&utm_medium=email&utm_source=newsletter&utm_term=260309) on the platform.  Now Roblox wants to create more earners with two new developer [programs](https://about.roblox.com/newsroom/2026/03/roblox-announces-incubator-jumpstart-creator-programs), Incubator and Jumpstart. The former is a six-month intensive to scale existing dev teams, while Jumpstart is an ongoing program for individual creators new to the platform or developing their first game.  **Worth noting: **Roblox has faced criticism from [American](https://lacounty.gov/2026/02/19/la-county-sues-roblox-for-unfair-and-deceptive-business-practices-that-endanger-and-exploit-children/) and [Australian](https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/feb/09/australian-government-roblox-rating-child-safety) governments for failing to protect minors from predatory behavior. Minors currently make up a large portion of the platform’s demographic ([over 70%](https://www.statista.com/statistics/1190869/roblox-games-users-global-distribution-age/?srsltid=AfmBOop14N9qAZfXnQ20J0QY158xxZlIss30OWq1isoXxr1GZJt3rbr2), among those who completed the platform’s age check).  With the mentorship programs, Roblox says it’s aiming to reach an older demographic, reporting that players in the 18-34 range grew over 50% in the last year. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # ➕ Community Tab **Are you a creator manager or agent?** We want to hear from you. We’re running an anonymous survey on what you’re seeing right now in creator brand deals. It only takes five minutes to fill out. Survey here (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScHo7FvuhfP1qsAygnpilMVVcRMAouwn7yOFQpYvi5tBerbQQ/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=102048335718617266759) We look forward to reading your responses, and feel free to **hit reply** to this email with any questions. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [YouTube](https://x.com/nealmohan/status/2030004047558889611?s=20) expands its localized thumbnail feature to more creators, allowing them to design and upload thumbnails in different languages. * [Feastables](https://x.com/MrBeast/status/2031408299766145391) is releasing candy in promotion of the _Super Mario Bros Galaxy_ movie. * [Meta](https://www.axios.com/2026/03/10/meta-facebook-moltbook-agent-social-network) acquires AI social platform Moltbook. * [MrBeast producer Mack Hopkins](https://youtu.be/3XC_1NQraUo?si=Q7iEDUvHPIW8GvKt) uploads his first YouTube video in two years. * _[Bachelor](https://www.instagram.com/p/DVtbgYelKpd/?img_index=1)_[ alums Serena Pitt and Joe Amabile ](https://www.instagram.com/p/DVtbgYelKpd/?img_index=1)launch an Unwell podcast. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/why-this-producer-is-leaving-netflix-for-youtube

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/c9cdc4b8-691e-4f3d-a5c8-4a1c8c4ac572/0309_Header.png?t=1773072966) Follow image link: (https://centraltalentbooking.com/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=publishpress_20260213) Caption: **Good morning.** We’re thrilled to finally share something we’ve been working on the last few months: Our next creator summit, **Press Publish LA**, is happening on May 28. Save the date and keep reading for more on why we’re running back Press Publish (this time on our own turf), focusing on a major theme for our industry, and more.  — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: **In today’s issue…** 1) Our biggest announcement yet 2) How a film creator wants to change indie movie distribution 3) What happens when podcast creators leave YouTube for Netflix View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Introducing Press Publish LA: The Hollywood Creator Summit View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/810c3292-c581-4522-a51e-b0056d3faad9/0309_PPLA_copy_2.gif?t=1773073373) Caption: We’re hosting 500+ creatives at our one-day summit in LA On **May 28**, we’re bringing together creators, builders, and media entrepreneurs for the second installment of our flagship event: [Press Publish LA](https://news.thepublishpress.com/press-publish-la). **Here’s why:** For the last five years, we’ve been building a community through creator news—connecting with people who care about storytelling, entrepreneurship, and the future of media. **Press Publish** is our way of bringing that community into the same room. We did it for the first time in NYC last September, bringing together **400+ creators, operators, and media entrepreneurs** for the inaugural Press Publish summit.  * The event sold out before the first speaker announcement and featured conversations [with storytellers](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/cleo-max-recap) like Cleo Abram and Max Joseph. * Plus, we had surprise appearances from [Steven Bartlett](https://www.instagram.com/p/DOO2fzkCWp3/) and [Casey Neistat](https://www.instagram.com/p/DONN9pcDD5I/) (and even from [Richard Branson](https://www.instagram.com/p/DOLtP5gCks-/) at the welcome party). **What we learned: **Creators want community like this. And events could become a core part of our business. “Most of the time we spend online falls into three buckets: regrettable minutes, forgettable minutes, and memorable minutes,” Samir said. “A lot of the internet is the first two. We started thinking about how to create more of the third and we realized the best way to do that was to bring people together in real life.” So now we’re heading to **Los Angeles** to host **The Hollywood Creator Summit.** For a long time, we talked about what would happen when creators and Hollywood converged. But now? That convergence has happened—creators and Hollywood operate in the same entertainment system. * Creators like [Mark Rober](https://www.netflix.com/tudum/articles/mark-rober-netflix), [Jake Shane](https://deadline.com/2026/01/therapuss-with-jake-shane-48-hours-podcast-netflix-1236690355/), and [Alan Chikin Chow](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/alan-chikin-chow-goes-to-netflix) are putting shows on Netflix. * [Markiplier](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/markiplier-smashes-at-the-box-office) and [Racka Racka](https://variety.com/2025/film/features/bring-her-back-philippou-brothers-youtubers-a24-horror-1236405305/) are finding success with indie films. * And YouTube filmmakers like [Kane Parsons](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/why-the-mlb-invested-in-these-creators-a71b) and [Wesley Wang](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/inside-viral-short-film-taking-youtube) are signing with major studios. **So how do creators build lasting, scalable businesses in this new reality? **The next era of entertainment will be built by people who understand both worlds. That’s what Press Publish LA is all about. **What creators can expect: ** * On-stage conversations with creators and industry leaders * Dedicated moments throughout the event to meet other creators * Small group discussions to go deeper on the craft and business of being a creator  * A live episode of _The Colin and Samir Show_ with Q&A and a surprise guest **Tickets are now live 👇** Press Publish LA: Apply Here (https://luma.com/ouyxukg0) **Questions? **Just reply to this email and we’ll get back to you. – Hannah, Syd, Loz, Colin, and Samir View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # The Future of YouTube Indie Films: Worldbuilding View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/34428dc0-b884-4ab8-99b3-3309bf8212b3/0309_Article_Photo_2__1_.png?t=1773072992) Caption: Jonah Feingold is seeking funding for his media company Romantical / Photography by [Alex K Brown](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3783212/) Last week, film creator [Jonah Feingold](https://www.instagram.com/jonahfeingold/?hl=en&utm_campaign=now-in-theaters-creators&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=news.thepublishpress.com) announced a $3 million [fundraising round](https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7435106839098359810/?originTrackingId=ZNrGwRnVHZaW1G0LD4pg%2BQ%3D%3D) to build out his romantic comedy media company, **Romantical**. **Set the scene:** Feingold started [Romantical](https://www.instagram.com/itsromantical/?hl=en) in 2024 to bring back the romcom for a more online audience with his long-form “[filmettes](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5WZdyKKn0FM&t=1626s).” Although his YouTube projects are funded by Patreon and brand partnerships, Feingold is no stranger to the fundraising world.  * He made his latest feature film, [31 Candles](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/now-in-theaters-creators), with the backing of 33 investors, but he doesn’t want investors to contribute to a single film anymore. * **Why? **He wants them to buy into a fully fledged media company. “I think people should be investing in ecosystems,” Feingold told us. “Romantical is a movie. It's an unscripted show. It's a scripted show on YouTube. It's a community event and it's licensing opportunities.” **Breaking down the strategy:** Feingold has made five feature films in the past five years and said he has no equity in any of them. He wants to build a system in which he 1) has ownership in his IP, but 2) can grant equity to team members who contributed to the film’s creative development. **While we’re here:** In an [open letter](https://jonahfeingold.substack.com/p/an-open-letter-to-youtube-give-independent?r=8axjl&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&triedRedirect=true&_src_ref=linkedin.com) to YouTube last month, Feingold proposed a “Rent/Buy” button on the platform (separate from monthly channel membership options) for creators looking to sell standalone VOD content.  Film rental on YouTube is currently only available to aggregate film services (like NBCU or A24), not individual creators.  The goal is to change the way indie films are distributed. “There have never been more pathways to get your movie in front of an audience—and yet remarkably few of those pathways actually work at getting people to show up in a meaningful way,” Feingold said. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: Sponsored by [CTB](https://centraltalentbooking.com/bookings/dumb-blonde-podcast-9?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=publishpress_20260302) # Bunnie XO and Sharon Osbourne on Life With a Legend View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/e6a0a6f6-a838-41e0-8fbd-b9354e78faf6/_Sharon_Osbourne_-_Publish_Press_Ad.webp?t=1773070025) Follow image link: (https://centraltalentbooking.com/bookings/dumb-blonde-podcast-9?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=publishpress_20260302) Caption: Bunnie XO is having a major moment. Her book _Stripped Down: Unfiltered and Unapologetic_ recently hit the top of the New York Times Best Seller list. But she’s also quietly built one of the most compelling interview platforms in podcasting. In the Season 11 premiere of _Dumb Blonde_, Bunnie sits down with Sharon Osbourne for a rare and deeply personal conversation about life with Ozzy, the realities of loving someone in the spotlight, and the moments behind the headlines. Moments like this don’t happen by accident. They require the right guest, the right timing, and the right coordination behind the scenes. That’s where Central Talent Booking comes in. For more than 26 years, CTB has helped creators secure meaningful conversations with the guests their audiences want to hear from. Want guests who are game to have real conversations on your show? [Partner with Central Talent Booking](https://centraltalentbooking.com/bookings/dumb-blonde-podcast-9?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=publishpress_20260302). View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # The Unexpected Tradeoff of Netflix Podcasts View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/0678db63-6ecf-4962-9063-8045b0f7e2ed/0309_Article_Photo_3.png?t=1773073049) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Podcast creators see a drop in YouTube subscribers after becoming Netflix exclusives / Illustration by Moy Zhong In the battle for podcast dominance, Netflix is making significant headway. YouTube subscriber growth of certain Netflix-acquired podcasts has dropped up to 50% in the last year, [Bloomberg reports](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2026-03-05/how-netflix-s-push-into-podcasts-looks-on-youtube). **Behind the screen:** Netflix exclusively owns the podcasts it’s acquired. Although certain shows (like Jake Shane’s _Therapuss_) can continue uploading to Spotify, none of them can upload to YouTube or post their own clips to socials.  **The result?** Decreasing YouTube viewership. Last year, football podcast _3 & Out With John Middlekauff_ saw 8,000 new YouTube subscribers in January. This January, the number fell to 1,500—despite posting YouTube-exclusive content separate from the Netflix-owned podcast. **The motivation for creators to sign with Netflix anyway:** Netflix promises a cash guarantee, marketing, and access to its 300 million viewers. Although the exclusivity clause limits distribution on other platforms, some podcasts are taking the gamble with a long-term view. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 👀 Creator Jobs * **Video essay creator Grant Rudow** is looking for a [researcher and producer](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2219646-researcher-story-producer-grant-rudow) with at least two years of experience. * **Critical Role** is hiring a [senior growth marketing manager](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2228241-senior-growth-marketing-manager-critical-role) to lead fan growth strategy across social channels. * **Abstraction Media **is looking for a** **[video editor](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2228262-video-editor-short-form-comedy-abstraction-media) to work on short-form comedy clips across social channels. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Comedy creator Tanner Devore](https://www.instagram.com/p/DVpOS7Dk7iL/?hl=en) joins TMG’s podcast network with his show, _Tangent_. * [Apple Creator Studio](https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.439121415;dc_trk_aid=632188090;dc_trk_cid=248691022;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=$%7BGDPR%7D;gdpr_consent=$%7BGDPR_CONSENT_755%7D;ltd=;dc_tdv=1) brings the best creative apps for film, music, design, and more together in one subscription. Try your first month free. Then pay just $12.99 a month* * [Indonesia](https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/06/world/asia/indonesia-social-media-ban.html?partner=slack&smid=sl-share) will implement a social media ban for children under 16. * [Food creator ElizabethEatsNYC](https://www.tiktok.com/@elizabetheatsnyc/video/7613874048770051359) reveals her face after growing to 1.4 million TikTok followers in 9 months. * [Zach King](https://youtu.be/sylUZSjxiq4) releases a feature recreating _Jurassic Park_ with pets. * [Finance creator Caleb Hammer’s](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/calebhammer_my-app-crashed-after-600000-people-signed-share-7431778965670780928-p2Xp/) new app, DollarWise, received 600K downloads within 15 minutes of launch. _^*This is sponsored content.^_ View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/a-new-creator-summit-is-coming-to-la

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/c74b10fe-0a66-4073-9f59-1374d656b2a0/0306_Header_No_Sponsor.png?t=1772814611) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning.** You may have sensed a shift in the Publishverse, and your instincts were correct. We have a big announcement coming on Monday, and you’re not going to want to miss it. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Can This Comedy Creator Put an End to Deepfakes? View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/1b3c30d1-7ca7-4cb1-a248-05dbfbcd7213/0306_Article_Photo_1.png?t=1772814644) Caption: Creators Zander Small (left) and Morgpie (right) launch Fanlock, a platform to combat deepfakes / [Zander Small](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqGWN2r1pEg), [Morgpie](https://www.instagram.com/p/DUQsoPfjlXk/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) Deepfakes (AI videos that [mimic](https://www.instagram.com/p/DVJ7hHvD63Q/?hl=en) a creator’s likeness, usually without consent) have been a [long](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/creators-fight-digital-fraud)-[held](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/pov-you-got-deepfaked) issue for creators—and in the age of AI it’s not slowing down.  Comedy creator [Zander Small](https://www.instagram.com/zander_smalls/?hl=en) is on a mission to stop it with [Fanlock](https://fanlock.com/)—a platform that detects deepfakes, leaks, and AI-generated content using creators’ likenesses. “The tools available were just not cutting it, so I built something better,” Small told us. **Go deep:** Small co-founded Fanlock with adult content creator [Morgpie](https://www.instagram.com/bigguswombus/?hl=en), who was spending thousands per month on leak removal with little success.  * Fanlock implements a [four-step system](https://www.naplesnews.com/press-release/story/91091/content-creators-morgpie-and-zander-small-launch-fanlock-leak-removal-platform/) including automated Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) takedown requests and manual removals—targeting encrypted messaging platforms like [Telegram](https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2026/jan/29/millions-creating-deepfake-nudes-telegram-ai-digital-abuse). * The platform currently offers three tiers ranging from $49–$199 per month. **The audience:** “From what we’re seeing on our end, it’s primarily female creators and cosplayers who are being hit the hardest by deepfakes,” Small said. “They tend to have highly-engaged audiences, which makes them bigger targets, and unfortunately the least institutional support when violations happen.” So far, FanLock has removed over 500K leaks for its 200 users. **Zoom out:** AI fraud losses are expected to hit $40 billion by next year, according [to Deloitte](https://www.entrepreneur.com/science-technology/ai-deepfakes-are-stealing-millions-every-year-whos/494361). Other companies like [CAA and YouTube](https://blog.youtube/news-and-events/creative-artists-agency-responsible-ai-tools-for-talent/?utm_campaign=inside-beast-games&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=news.thepublishpress.com) also have reactive systems in place for takedown requests. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # These Creators Are Giving Their Journalists Equity View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/0c193f05-51ce-48aa-891c-4bb5bc29752b/0306_Article_Photo_2.png?t=1772814743) Caption: (Left to right) Co-founder Max Tcheyan, Editor in Chief Dana Brown, and Co-founder Daniel Tsinis lead food media company Caper / [Photography](https://www.instagram.com/p/DVb7y0ZknN-/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) by [Poupay](https://www.instagram.com/poupayphoto/) Former Puck journalists [Max Tcheyan](https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxtcheyan/) and [Daniel Tsinis](https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-tsinis-b9297a44/) just launched [Caper](https://caper.media/)—a media company for food industry professionals where its writers get equity in the business.  “We want to speak to the industry class, help them tell their stories, and give them space to do it in some new ways,” Tcheyan told us. “If you're entering into [the food] space, this should help you navigate a career as well.” **How it works:** All of Caper’s content will be accessible through a paid subscription. In addition to equity, writers will receive bonuses for top-performing posts. Tcheyan and Tsinis received $2.5 million in funding to build out their platform and team of salaried journalists—starting with NY-based journalists [Chris Crowley](https://www.instagram.com/chrisecrowley/?hl=en), [Emma Orlow](https://www.instagram.com/emorlow/?hl=en), and [Annie Armstrong](https://www.instagram.com/anniesalright/?hl=en). **Big picture:** Creator “co-ops” (like Johnny Harris’ [Newpress](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/inside-johnny-harris-algorithm-free-news-site)) are growing in popularity among journalists, where they receive benefits beyond a salaried position. This is Tcheyan’s third media company using a subscription and equity-based business model, following news outlets Puck and The Athletic.  View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # What Apple’s New Video Podcasts Mean for Creators View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/76ebfd1c-a6c9-4419-b8e3-4ed589088603/0306_Article_Photo_3.png?t=1772814804) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Apple rolls out more video podcast capabilities, with potentially higher costs for creators / [Apple](https://deadline.com/2026/02/apple-video-podcasts-1236725991/) Apple [rolled out](https://deadline.com/2026/02/apple-video-podcasts-1236725991/) more video capabilities to its podcast app last month—but creators may be slower to adopt it than on Spotify or YouTube. The reason: it’s more expensive. Apple’s new setup will charge podcast hosting platforms to place dynamic ads in a creator’s video. Previously with audio, there was no charge. “Creators uploading video on Apple will benefit from [analytics and retention metrics], but economically this is dangerous for the podcast industry in some ways,” Rox Codes, co-founder of Steven Bartlett’s podcast management platform [Flightcast](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/steven-bartlett-launches-new-podcast-platform), told us. * The change stems from Apple’s use of HLS (HTTP Live Streaming), which loads video in segments as a viewer watches instead of downloading the full file at once. * That has upsides—like more precise retention data. But it also means ads may not play if viewers drop off early, potentially lowering payouts. * It also raises hosting costs, as HLS downloads the video from the host (ex: Flightcast) instead of Apple serving the video directly (like on Spotify and YouTube). “There’s a lot of crazy tech stuff that just rolls back up into ‘it’s really expensive for hosting platforms, and less ads might get played’—and is that all worth it to put a video on Apple Podcasts?” Codes said. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Comedy creators Brooke Averick and Connor Wood](https://linktr.ee/bnclive) are going on a California podcast tour. * [Dude Perfect](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/kevin-sabbe_youtube-juggernaut-dude-perfect-hired-its-activity-7435057666000920576-KtnV?utm_source=social_share_send&utm_medium=member_desktop_web&rcm=ACoAAAW0s2IB0S0fJXy2ABVl5QgP-_YRYqsfhBU) hires its first chief content officer. * [Quen Blackwell, Brittany Broski, and Jake Shane](https://www.instagram.com/p/DVgxXVSDi4Z/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==) are hosting the red carpet at Vanity Fair’s Oscars after party. * [Haley Pham](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OFkQxJxeV2c) shares a documentary about the four-year process of writing her book. * [Sports creator Justin Leusner](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_AVyKfH_HFA) is visiting 30 NBA arenas in 30 days as part of a fundraiser for Make-A-Wish. * [Mark Rober](https://crunchlabsacademy.com/) is casting for his forthcoming Netflix student competition show, _Schooled!_ View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 📚️ Thank You for Pressing Publish _The content we’re looking forward to reading, watching, and listening to this weekend._ * **Read:** For _Harpers Magazine_, journalist Sam Kriss examines the shifting [tech culture](https://harpers.org/archive/2026/03/childs-play-sam-kriss-ai-startup-roy-lee/) in San Francisco, and the traits entrepreneurs look for when hiring in the age of AI.  * **Watch:** Video journalist Macy Gilliam [explores](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M8G44b0mljw&list=PLflRwNbXC3ZchTO_f6yF9lJXnudZjvM4d&index=1) why Google invests so much in Google Maps, and takes Maps images of Bosnia via Google’s Street View car. * **Listen:** Ahead of Hollywood’s biggest night, Katey Rich and Christopher Rosen break down their [Oscar predictions](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Th0JPy9VTpk) for The Ankler’s _Prestige Junkie_ podcast. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/this-creator-wants-to-end-deepfakes

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/8fba0537-251a-4c76-83b9-45d4a7fc7cfe/0304_Header_150x.png?t=1772642283) Follow image link: (https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.438628645;dc_trk_aid=632037567;dc_trk_cid=248618636;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=${GDPR};gdpr_consent=${GDPR_CONSENT_755};ltd=;dc_tdv=1) Caption: **Good morning.** This week marks one year that Syd (one-half of this newsletter) has been with The Publish Press. The creator economy functions like dog years, so that basically amounts to five years of creator meme, trend, and business expertise.  We could think of where we’d be without her, but we wouldn’t want to be there. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # KSI Buys Stake in London Football Club View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/8bac541c-ddcb-4ba3-85b7-e531390fa163/0304_Article_Photo_1_150x.png?t=1772642303) Caption: KSI lays out his hopes for Dagenham & Redbridge / [KSI](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4UbskAuKQbs) The UK has chosen its next Ted Lasso and it’s…KSI. This week, the Sidemen frontman became part owner of sixth-tier London football club Dagenham & Redbridge. KSI is taking a minority 20% stake, according to _[The Athletic](https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7082990/2026/03/03/ksi-dagenham-redbridge-owner-carroll/?partner=slack&smid=sl-share)_. “With this club, I want to do the unthinkable,” KSI said in a [YouTube announcement](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4UbskAuKQbs). “I want to take Dagenham & Redbridge to the Premier League.” **How he got here:** Between his personal channels and Sidemen, KSI has built a following of 100 million since 2009. He co-owns creator CPG brands PRIME and Lunchly and has his own record label. The Sidemen have sold out [Wembley Stadium](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/sidemen-sell-out-wembley-stadium) for charity football matches.  His motivation to buy a minority stake in Dagenham & Redbridge partially stems from the [FIFA YouTube series](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VaOkeWr22_s) that helped launch his channel.  In addition to building a better team, KSI wants to build community with the fans. “I’m reachable,” he said. “You can let your frustrations out to me, or celebrate with me. I am approachable. What other owner do you know that’s sitting with the fans like this?” **The pitch:** Other UK-based football teams—like Ryan Reynolds’ and Rob McElhenney’s Wrexham AFC—have seen [substantial success](https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/47827358/wrexham-premier-league-ryan-reynolds-rob-mac-phil-parkinson-soccer-mark-ogden) following ownership changes, but this marks the first time a creator has gotten involved on an ownership level. Will KSI have what it takes to bring Dagenham & Redbridge to the Premier League? View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # These News Creators Want to be the SportsCenter for Ads View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/44c1ab21-e591-4f4d-a418-0cf2f70842a8/0304_Article_Photo_2_150x.png?t=1772642321) Caption: Jack Westerkamp (left) and Geno Schellenberger (right) of Breaking and Entering Media expand into live shows / [The Vault](https://breakingandenteringadv.substack.com/p/personal-legend-one-year-in-nyc) Advertising news creators [Breaking and Entering Media](https://www.instagram.com/breakingandenteringmedia/?hl=en), led by Geno Schellenberger and Jack Westerkamp, are launching a [live show](https://www.youtube.com/@breakingandenteringmedia) today. **Breaking it down: ** * Schellenberger started Breaking and Entering as a podcast in 2020 about getting a job in the ad industry. Westerkamp, a finance professional and childhood friend, joined in 2022. * In 2024, the duo started posting 60-second [whiteboard breakdowns](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/breaking-entering-media_todays-ad-news-in-60-seconds-maslows-hierarchy-activity-7434266124537675776-UzeO?utm_source=social_share_send&utm_medium=member_desktop_web&rcm=ACoAAAW0s2IB0S0fJXy2ABVl5QgP-_YRYqsfhBU) of the top ad news, which popped off [on LinkedIn](https://www.wsj.com/articles/the-ad-world-is-obsessed-with-industry-news-videos-from-two-27-year-old-guys-b8a1d5ad?gaa_at=eafs&gaa_n=AWEtsqerHAtyf4mxvwzjhvQn8F7ujaQHFHkQIDir36AR0Un7DAmUrNNg5IorMZdI9no%3D&gaa_ts=69a79e92&gaa_sig=9hz1dWbLAVooHbMQ1Eu3_CBxai1Wfg2tfq99ViAcSRBscgN4Jh9EL9J76drwrxII-R9m7ykFycmaY6y4u_tefQ%3D%3D) that summer, allowing them to go full-time.  * Now they run a team of five and reach an audience of over 60K across a [podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/breaking-and-entering-advertising-podcast/id1506434104), longform [shows](https://www.youtube.com/@BreakingandEnteringMedia), and [newsletter](https://breakingandentering.beehiiv.com/). **Why go live? **To experiment with format, streamline production, and lean into their chemistry. “Geno and I’s ability to be on live and play off each other and flex the muscle of our friendship is [our competitive advantage],” Westerkamp said, “And the best way to take full advantage of that is via livestream where things are very real and in-the-moment.” **The episodes will air Tuesday–Thursday from 11am–1pm ET** across X, YouTube, and LinkedIn, featuring guests from the ad industry. They’re also evolving their sales approach to include broader sponsorship packages. “As opposed to a traditional creator model where you do a couple custom videos for your rate, we’re treating it more like a media network where you’re spending this amount of money and you're getting this number of impressions but it's spread out across short-form clips and ad reads,” Westerkamp said. **Read the room:** The duo take inspiration from daily news show TBPN, who have grown a [loyal following](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/this-film-festival-is-changing-for-creators) and [million-dollar](https://www.semafor.com/newsletter/02/15/2026/semafor-media-fishing-mentality?utm_campaign=night-media-secures-70m-investment&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=news.thepublishpress.com) sponsorships in its first year. They join a growing [niche-casting](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/digital/livestream-talk-shows-nichecasting-1236520606/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/digital/livestream-talk-shows-nichecasting-1236520606/) trend, where niche creators like Assistants vs. Agents and freight industry analyst Malcom Harris are launching weekly, high-quality livestreams. **Breaking and Entering’s end game?** Become the number-one show for the advertising industry.  “Our dream is that similar to how an office might have Bloomberg or MSNBC on their TV, we want ad agencies to have the Breaking and Entering live show on their TV and be that news source for daily marketing news,” Westerkamp said. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: Sponsored by [Apple Creator Studio](https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.438628645;dc_trk_aid=632037567;dc_trk_cid=248618636;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=${GDPR};gdpr_consent=${GDPR_CONSENT_755};ltd=;dc_tdv=1) # All Your Creative Tools Working Together View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/d25faca3-ff65-4873-8ede-ad5bb139a7b2/1200x700_VERBS_Press_Publish_Primary_Newsletter1x.webp?t=1772640821) Follow image link: (https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.438628645;dc_trk_aid=632037567;dc_trk_cid=248618636;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=${GDPR};gdpr_consent=${GDPR_CONSENT_755};ltd=;dc_tdv=1) Caption: Apple Creator Studio brings together the best of Apple’s apps on Mac and iPad for video, music, design, and productivity into one low-priced subscription. * Final Cut Pro gives you smarter, faster ways to craft and cut captivating videos. * Pixelmator Pro lets everyone reimagine images, create striking graphics, paint, draw, illustrate, and so much more. * Logic Pro helps you produce music and perfect audio—bringing brilliance to every beat. * Supercharged productivity apps bring intelligent features to help you get more done in Keynote, Pages, and Numbers. With Apple Creator Studio, it’s all yours for the making. [Start creating now with a free trial](https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.438628645;dc_trk_aid=632037567;dc_trk_cid=248618636;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=${GDPR};gdpr_consent=${GDPR_CONSENT_755};ltd=;dc_tdv=1). View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Instagram Tests Shopping Links on Reels View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/f548aacc-fe54-45d0-8d9d-d812e71995cf/0304_Article_Photo_3_150x.png?t=1772642346) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Instagram inserts shopping links into user content / [Lindsey Gamble](https://www.threads.com/@lindseygamble_/post/DSXz1-RkZVZ/first-time-seeing-shop-the-look-buttons-on-reels-content-it-looks-like-these) Instagram is testing a new “shop the look” feature that allows users to shop products related to the Reel they are watching—without the creator linking to the product. **Context:** Platforms including TikTok and Pinterest have rolled out similar features. For example, TikTok’s “[Find Similar](https://www.tiktok.com/@km_marketing_biz/video/7506653768591658283)” button suggests products related to clothing items, makeup, or other products in videos.  Although Meta [does not](https://www.theverge.com/tech/887692/instagram-shop-the-look-ai-shopping-tiktok-influencers) take commission on the items sold through the new feature, neither do the creators—and there is currently no option for creators to opt out.  View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # ➕ Community Tab View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/965bb936-b572-43cc-a59d-4fd85033673c/Image__6_.png?t=1772645769) Caption: Syd (left) and Hannah (second from left) attend the live taping of creator sitcom _Good Roomies_, co-created by Jonathan Guarano (center)_ _/ Photography courtesy of Syd Cohen Hi everyone, Syd and Hannah here. Earlier this week, we went to a live taping of a creator sitcom, _[Good Roomies](https://www.instagram.com/goodroomies/?hl=en)_, written by creators and Press readers [Jonathan Gaurano](https://www.instagram.com/jonathangaurano/?hl=en) and [Alix Winschel](https://www.instagram.com/alixwins/?hl=en). The twist? Audience participation is _encouraged. _ **Zoom in:** _Good Roomies_ is made up of a creator cast including Michelle Park, Motoki Maxed, Jade Duong, and Guarano. The first episode is about Megan (played by Park) navigating her sexuality with support from her friends.  The hour-long episode was acted in multiple vignettes with two cameramen recording the show and audience reactions. The cast made call-outs to the audience and responded to laughs, shouts (and lack thereof). It felt like a blend of every trend we’ve been tracking: IRL [events](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/want-to-grow-get-smaller), [microdramas](https://youtu.be/5TmD4TlpZH4?si=bbZ4yJSI2gDytIyV), and highly-produced [short-form series](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/brand-deal-but-make-it-a-movie).  Leaving we wondered—is this what the future of social shows look like? In the age of AI, where we often can’t trust what’s on our screen, is a rogue cough, camera-pan, or clap from an audience member verification of reality? You can be the judge yourself. The series will go live across socials on April 20. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Podcast hosting platform Audacy](https://podnews.net/press-release/audacy-creators-youtube) adds a YouTube integration allowing creators to publish directly to YouTube.  * [Food creator Keith Lee](https://www.instagram.com/reels/DVbd_R_jmWM/) invests in a dumpling restaurant in Brooklyn. * [Creator fandom platform Lore](https://x.com/loreobsessed/status/2028865491159183534) launches in beta. * [X](https://x.com/nikitabier/status/2028873177028555201?s=46) will now suspend creators from its monetization program for sharing AI-generated content about armed conflicts. * [Animation studio Laika](https://kidscreen.com/2026/03/03/laika-and-gotham-partner-on-an-animation-accelerator/) launches a creator accelerator program. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/ksi-just-bought-a-soccer-team

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/16e97b37-e4f3-42f4-9db6-10b39a7c40c2/0302_Header_150x-B.png?t=1772468812) Follow image link: (https://centraltalentbooking.com/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=publishpress_20260213) Caption: **Good morning.** Last night at SAG-AFTRA’s Actor Awards, Michael B. Jordan won for his lead performance in _Sinners_—an award many people expected to go to Timothée Chalamet for his role in _Marty Supreme_. With the Oscars just around the corner, who do you think will take home the prestigious award for best actor? **Hit reply** and tell us your hot takes. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # When Should Creators Hire a CEO? View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/8b508376-d602-487d-b87f-0f90e969946f/0302_Article_Photo_1_150x.png?t=1772468853) Caption: Alessandra Catanese (middle) is the CEO of Smosh, which was founded by Anthony Padilla (left) and Ian Hecox (right) / [Alessandra Catanese](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/alessandra-catanese-5847b723_first-time-ceo-long-time-fan-smosh-activity-7076955112258048001-t826?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAACK8qD0BCJaJ-3HpKj7JK7pntzFTjd-agTE) One of the [biggest](https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7424429344967548928/) [debates](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/stephaniehind_creators-ceos-this-week-in-la-the-lighthouse-activity-7420212400269914112-_opf?utm_source=social_share_send&utm_medium=member_desktop_web&rcm=ACoAAAW0s2IB0S0fJXy2ABVl5QgP-_YRYqsfhBU) taking over our LinkedIn feed is: should creators hire a CEO? If so, when?  We called up Smosh CEO [Alessandra Catanese](https://www.linkedin.com/in/alessandra-catanese-5847b723/), one of the longest-running creator CEOs in the business, for her take. **Quick background →** * Smosh, a comedy brand started by friends Anthony Padilla and Ian Hecox in 2005, has had multiple owners—Defy Media purchased the brand in 2011, then Mythical in 2019, then Hecox and Padilla [bought it back](https://variety.com/2023/digital/news/smosh-anthony-padilla-ian-hecox-acquire-rhett-link-1235645648/) in 2023.  * Catanese joined as CEO soon after and now leads a team of 70+. * Her edge? Deep knowledge in talent management and partnerships with experience at companies like Maker Studios and Patreon—plus trust with the founders. **Three questions Catanese asks creators to find out if it’s time for a CEO → ** 1. **What does your business need?** Catanese said to identify where growth is slowing you down, not speeding you up. “Try learning as much about business as possible, and on that journey if you're like ‘I want to tear my eyes out and I've sacrificed so much of my art’...that’s kind of your answer,” Catanese said. 2. **What are your concerns? “**Where I think creators get scared is ‘are you going to run away with the businesses?’ For us, our relationships are strong but we also work with a system.”  Smosh’s system includes running meetings on workflow [software](https://www.ninety.io/eos/try/software/?utm_campaign=90-eos-software-noram&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=entrepreneur%20operating%20system&hsa_acc=5570943560&hsa_cam=17897292173&hsa_grp=149290243675&hsa_ad=656672387163&hsa_src=g&hsa_tgt=kwd-311734378553&hsa_kw=entrepreneur%20operating%20system&hsa_mt=e&hsa_net=adwords&hsa_ver=3&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=17897292173&gbraid=0AAAAADRiON7S6RQXqFB6-kQR-RoIRwHdN&gclid=Cj0KCQiA5I_NBhDVARIsAOrqIsaSiRvAKjrEbM5UUrLHTjNiWfAY4vn_vLNhxfyKu0-gW6WwhqQbbHcaAmEUEALw_wcB) Entrepreneurship Operating System and setting one-, three-, and 10-year plans broken into 90-day sprints. 3. **How can your business grow? **Catanese says creators should identify where they want to expand—such as products or courses—and where they are comfortable off-loading decisions. “Being a CEO doesn’t mean I make all decisions on an island, but oftentimes I make decisions [Anthony and Ian] won't be privy to,” Catanese said. “We need to get there with the understanding of always being respectful, POV of comedy rooted in friendship, and core values for employees that we have to exhibit.” **Programming note: **This is part of a new series highlighting the CEOs who work for some of YouTube’s biggest creators. Do you work for a creator or want to learn more about certain roles on creator teams? Hit reply and let us know. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # AI Artists Climb Spotify Charts View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/94b3e422-cc8a-4030-9224-291c61e4c2a9/0302_Article_Photo_2_150x.png?t=1772469080) Caption: Spotify has seen an influx of music by AI artists like Sienna Rose (left) / [Sienna Rose](https://open.spotify.com/artist/6wq8iklwcF2dj0jtMpPvOJ), Illustration by Moy Zhong Last week, music creator [PJ Frantz](https://www.instagram.com/p/DU6OLgokgft/) noticed that six of Spotify’s top 50 trending songs were made by AI—and swiftly called for Spotify to label AI music. **Context:** Last September, [Spotify removed](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/why-spotify-removed-75m-songs) over 75 million AI-generated songs and announced it would implement protections like AI labels on the platform. However, AI “artists” like [Sienna Rose](https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2026-02-18/spotify-ai-generated-music) have gained millions of monthly listeners on Spotify without labeling. [Now](https://www.tiktok.com/@oliviaswinton/video/7521072207011925270?q=spotify%20ai%20music&t=1772427792129) [creators](https://www.tiktok.com/@ccsthoughts/video/7610176985481940238?q=spotify%20ai%20music&t=1772427792129) are taking it upon themselves to share which artists on Spotify are AI-generated. * “Listeners want to know and they can’t tell the difference,” Franz said on Instagram. * “Good music is hard to make on purpose,” music creator [Hamilton Troy Hayes](https://www.youtube.com/@hthazee) told us. “The only purpose of AI is convenience. And with that convenience, you lose all of the details that make music truly powerful.” View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: Sponsored by [CTB](https://centraltalentbooking.com/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=publishpress_20260213) # How Theo Von Landed Chris Hemsworth for an Off-Script Conversation View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/d348cc34-17ce-4ec6-a281-c6580907825f/_Chris_Hemsworth_-_Publish_Press_Ad.webp?t=1772469202) Follow image link: (https://centraltalentbooking.com/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=publishpress_20260213) Caption: In most interviews, Chris Hemsworth rarely gets personal. But on a recent episode of _This Past Weekend with Theo Von_, that wasn’t the case. With help from **Central Talent Booking,** Theo booked one of Hollywood’s biggest stars for a conversation that went beneath the surface. Chris opened up about connecting with his father through his battle with Alzheimer’s and what it’s like to reach the top of your career yet still feel lost. In just one week, **the episode crossed 1.1 million views on YouTube.** Want to land guests who are willing to go deep like this? [Partner with CTB and their 26+ years of industry expertise today](https://centraltalentbooking.com/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=publishpress_20260213). View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Streamers Launch a Scholarship at NYU View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/5ca81c3d-6a3d-4173-bbd8-1d159b02bff2/0302_Article_Photo_3_150x.png?t=1772469240) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Valkyrae (left) funds a scholarship at New York University's Game Center named after fellow streamer Squeex (right) / [Valkyrae](https://youtu.be/qEFYW95Qah8?si=10XV8rF4I9Vf6Xp0) Gaming creators Valkyrae and Squeex [just announced](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qEFYW95Qah8) a scholarship in partnership with New York University’s Game Center.  **Loading screen:** As part of Valkyrae’s “Touching Grass” [YouTube series](https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHtQDtiBQx3evgBMqhf-mf9V1eHdTf4Ko) where she tries activities that scare her with other streamers, Squeex gave a lecture at NYU about livestreaming—where Valkyrae announced the “Squeex Scholarship.” The scholarship will support travel stipends, internships, and networking opportunities for students looking to launch their careers as gaming creators. **Leveling up: **As content creation is being recognized as a viable career path from universities, more schools are involving creators beyond curriculum. Syracuse University opened the [Center for the Creator Economy](https://creatoreconomy.syracuse.edu/) in November, and Gymnasium’s Adam Faze and Subway Take’s Kareem Rama recently [guest lectured](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/brynmooser_great-day-guest-lecturing-at-harvard-business-activity-7431457342036246528-HrY-/) at Harvard University. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 👀 Job Board * **Jack’s Dining Room** is hiring a [video editor](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2190697-video-editor-jacks-dining-room-jacks-dining-room). * **The Publish Press **(hi, that’s us) is hiring a [social media freelancer](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2212148-social-media-freelancer-the-publish-press) to grow our audience across Instagram and LinkedIn. * **Comedy creator ElevenZ** is hiring a [video editor](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2210714-video-editor-for-reaction-channel-elevenz) to edit YouTube reaction videos. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [News creator Andrew Callaghan](https://www.instagram.com/p/DVL-XHtDmU2/) is going on tour across the US. * [Coffee creator Morgan Eckroth](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V629RcQ3tSw) is releasing a book on at-home coffee making, _Coffee, For Here_. * [X](https://x.com/nikitabier/status/2028172473624395976) launches paid partnership labels for sponsored posts. * [OpenAI](https://x.com/sama/status/2027578652477821175?s=46) partners with the US Department of War. * [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/valorieluther_ai-seo-contentstrategy-activity-7425180152671899648-N1v8/?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email) reports a 60% decrease in traffic due to AI search. * [Alex Cooper](https://www.instagram.com/p/DVOo4eiEtxw/) shares a tour of the Unwell offices, saying the company has tripled in size in the last year. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/smosh-s-guide-to-hiring-a-ceo

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/49037c26-fc79-46a6-9b00-c7b936ae5fc6/0227_Header_150x__1_.png?t=1772211339) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning.** Even though our bid to buy Warner Bros was rejected, we’ve got some other exciting news brewing. Be sure to check in with us on Wednesday. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Unpacking Kalshi’s First Creator Suspension View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/cf68bfb9-bca1-4f18-89ff-85f25828e240/0227_Article_Photo_1_150x.png?t=1772210467) Caption: Kalshi removes a MrBeast employee from the platform for insider trading / Kalshi, MrBeast This week prediction market Kalshi removed a MrBeast employee from its platform for insider trading, marking the first time Kalshi has [publicly shared](https://news.kalshi.com/p/kalshi-trading-violation-enforcement-cases) details on an investigation.  **Here’s what we know:** * A MrBeast editor traded $4,000 on prediction markets related to the channel. Kalshi’s policies prohibit the use of insider knowledge for financial gain. * Upon investigation, the editor was fined $20,000 and banned from Kalshi for two years. **Predicting the prediction market: **Beast Industries CEO Jeff Housenbold [told CNBC](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=akIrtlCuCDs&t=1s) that he put company-wide policies in place three months ago that prohibit prediction market activity related to MrBeast content. He suspended the accused employee while Beast Industries investigates. “The prediction markets are going to have to self-police, but I don’t think that’s sufficient,” Housenbold said. “The government’s going to have to figure that out, the private sector’s going to have to self-police, and the prediction markets are going to need to put policies in place—but it is ripe for abuse.” **Why it matters:** Prediction market platforms are opening the door for anyone to bet on anything (from [Taylor Swift’s wedding date](https://kalshi.com/markets/kxmarriageswiftkelce/swift-kelce-married/kxmarriageswiftkelce-26) to [Pinterest’s acquisition](https://kalshi.com/markets/kxacquannouncepins/pinterest/kxacquannouncepins-27jan01)), giving people the opportunity to use insider information to their advantage. As Kalshi seeks to legitimize themselves, this case might set a precedent for how creators engage in prediction markets. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Why This Fashion Creator Has Her Own Benefactor View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/3887b276-9d5f-4307-be10-d8b35d53e6d1/0227_Article_Photo_2_150x__1_.png?t=1772211321) Caption: Emily Kirkpatrick of 'I Heart Mess' shares how her YouTube channel is funded without brand deals / [I Heart Mess](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pJaRPlcxtN8) “Patron of the arts” used to be a term for museum benefactors and theater investors. Could creators be the next artform worth patronizing? We asked Emily Kirkpatrick, the fashion creator behind [newsletter](https://www.iheartmess.com/) and [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@iheartmess/featured) channel I Heart Mess, about her own patron. **But first, how she got here:** * Kirkpatrick started as a journalist in 2011 for publications like [People](https://people.com/millennial-takes-on-the-trends-again-7967693), [i-D Magazine](https://i-d.co/article/hereditary-alex-wolff-dakota-johnson-suspiria-mother-jennifer-lawrence-mental-health-ptsd-horror-movies/), and [Vanity Fair](https://www.vanityfair.com/style/2023/04/kylie-jenner-bleached-eyebrows-fell-off-thin-brows-trend-vogue-beauty-secrets). While freelancing in 2020, she launched I Heart Mess on Substack. * Today the newsletter has 19K subscribers, 4% of which are paid—on par with Substack’s [average conversion rate](https://substack.com/going-paid-guide).  * She launched the YouTube channel in September 2024 as a visual accompaniment to the newsletter. **Enter: Kirkpatrick’s patron,** [Ruth Ann Harnisch](https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthannharnisch/), a former journalist turned creative philanthropist who personally sponsors Kirkpatrick’s YouTube channel. Harnisch approached Kirkpatrick to pay for content after being a longtime reader of the newsletter. With Harnisch’s contributions and AdSense, Kirkpatrick’s revenue is an even split between Substack and YouTube. In a brand deal-driven world, Kirkpatrick said she receives no brand deals because of her commitment to honest critiques—even though many brand professionals subscribe to the newsletter. “Of course, I would love Miu Miu to have an ad on something, but it's not going to stop me from critiquing a Miu Miu dress if I don't like it,” Kirkpatrick told us. “[Fashion brands] want to buy your silence to a certain extent, or buy your enthusiasm.” **Big picture:** Paid memberships are integrated into every major platform, and creators raising funds is hardly a new concept. Benefactors could provide a third path of support for creators that brands deem “unsafe.” View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Are Creators Earning More in 2026? View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/1e81d35f-4302-4342-ba46-8ad37dbaad0a/0227_Article_Photo_3_150x.png?t=1772210570) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: The Influencer Marketing Factory find that fewer than 15% of creators earn more than $50K annually / [The Influencer Marketing Factory](https://theinfluencermarketingfactory.com/creator-economy/) The creator economy is expected to grow 18% in 2026, to $43.9 billion, according to a [new report](https://theinfluencermarketingfactory.com/creator-economy-report/?utm_source=email&utm_medium=creatoreconomy_mentions&utm_campaign=CE_report_mentions) from Influencer Marketing Factory. Yet amid that growth, the agency found that among 1,000 US creators, **only 16% are making more than $50K **per year. Despite low earnings overall, 51% of creators reported their income has increased year-over-year. So where is all the money going? 2026 has been marked by landmark [creator](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/something-s-off-with-tiktok) [deals](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/beast-games-season-2-goes-worldwide) with networks like Fox, Amazon, and Fortune 500 brands. **Our own Samir Chaudry gave us his take on why wealth is concentrating at the top.** “It’s largely driven by who today’s biggest advertisers are,” Chaudry said. “As Fortune 500 and blue-chip brands move deeper into creator marketing, their budgets are getting bigger, but their tolerance for complexity isn't. They don’t want to manage 50 creators at $10K each. They want one partner at $500K, $1M, or $3M. **That shifts opportunity toward two types of creators:** 1. those with massive reach 2. those with companies built to service enterprise-level clients Everyone else still has monetization paths, especially in the $10-25K range of short-form brand deals. But those deals reward lean operations, not scale. Independent creators can be highly profitable. They just won’t capture the same dollars flowing into the ecosystem. So as brand spend grows, creator income grows too, just unevenly. Bigger checks are being written. They’re just being written to fewer creators.” **Tell us: **Do you think we’re seeing the end of the middle-class creator? **Hit reply** and tell us your thoughts. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Mark Rober’s CrunchLabs](https://rivian.com/newsroom/article/rivian-and-crunchlabs-announce-exclusive-partnership) inks an exclusive partnership with Rivian. * [Snap](https://newsroom.snap.com/first-ever-snappys-awards) is hosting its first creator award show, The Snappys. * [Apple Creator Studio](https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.439121415;dc_trk_aid=632188090;dc_trk_cid=248691022;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=$%7BGDPR%7D;gdpr_consent=$%7BGDPR_CONSENT_755%7D;ltd=;dc_tdv=1) brings the best creative apps for film, music, design, and more togetherin one subscription. Try your first month free. Then pay just $12.99 a month.* * [Wildlife creators Maya Higa, Macaila Wagner](https://x.com/mayahiga/status/2026747448043913486?s=46&t=NmWUNlnKIvC4arpjp1a_kQ), and more creators join National Geographic’s creator cohort. * [Gaming streamer Adin Ross](https://x.com/adinross/status/2021045710943068377?s=46) buys the house from _Breaking Bad_. * [Johnny Harris’ news media company, Newpress](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TpMFsUOBPQE), launches a new show, _The Bigger Picture_. * [Instagram](https://x.com/instagram/status/2027116306705662357?s=20) launches a customizable grid layout. _*This is sponsored content_ View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 📚️ Thank You for Pressing Publish _The content we’re looking forward to reading, watching, and listening to this weekend._ * **Read:** Newsletter writer Delia Cai celebrates [10 years](https://www.deezlinks.com/p/i-still-3-the-internet) of her media newsletter _Deez Links_. * **Watch:** Here come dat boi. Video essayist [Lugalan](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=choF4hqrbz4) uncovers the origin story of 3D memes.  * **Listen:** Brittany Broski’s entire career has led up to [this interview](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oVVkmPxGtz8) with Harry Styles—her self-proclaimed idol. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/kalshi-cracks-down-on-creator-betting

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/356b2785-6b08-43f6-af70-05958760a1af/0225_Header_No_Sponsor_150x.png?t=1772037143) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning. **Podcast bros everywhere are about to get even more…emboldened…with Supreme and Shure’s new [mic collab](https://supreme.com/previews/springsummer2026/all/36?=supreme-shure-mv7-microphone-22&back=all). Colin and Samir, just stick to yellow, please. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Creator Camp Uses Its New Ad Agency as a Talent Incubator View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/86ef55d8-2ae8-48e5-8cac-030544142341/0225_Article_Photo_1_150x.png?t=1772037162) Caption: Simon Kim leads Creator Camp's new agency branch / [Simon Kim](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DU_anKeDyYV/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) Creator Camp, the studio behind [Baron Ryan’s](https://www.instagram.com/americanbaron/?hl=en) _Two Sleepy People_, just launched an ad agency to fund future projects. “Over the last four years we've had a lot of brands come to us and be like, ‘Hey, we want help on this commercial production,’” Creator Camp’s CMO [Simon Kim](https://www.instagram.com/simonkim/) told us. **Context:** Creator Camp started in 2022 as an events business, working with brands like Claude, Notion, and Spotify to host [workshops](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/creatorbacked-real-estate) and [retreats](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/a-creator-made-film-festival) with film creators. It evolved to fund and produce creator films and shorts, hosting a [film festival](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/a-film-festival-by-creators) last year.  With the agency, it’s expanding its brand services to include organic social strategy, creator-led campaigns, and branded short-form series. Kim hired strategists like [Mullet Max](https://www.instagram.com/mulletmax_/?hl=en) to help build operations.  **Training the next gen: **The agency will double as a creator incubator for up-and-coming film talent. Creators can develop their directing, editing, or writing skills on brand campaigns—with the ultimate goal of creating a series or feature with Creator Camp. “We're trying to develop these intermediary steps for people [working toward] their own feature films,” Kim said. As of now, compensation for participating creators varies on role and brand. **Zoom out:** Brand agencies aren’t new to the creator economy (think: Anthpo’s [Pufferfish](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/the-lookalike-contest-creator-launches-a-brand-agency) or Alex Cooper’s [Unwell Creative Agency](https://www.wsj.com/articles/call-her-daddy-podcaster-alex-cooper-opens-an-unwell-ad-agency-e365ea0e?gaa_at=eafs&gaa_n=AWEtsqcPttiXWat8CfcbKmA1KWkzC5tUQdbeA8pjpnMMOA6oe_L5NDhrfk-MJSM-RIk%3D&gaa_ts=699f1b1d&gaa_sig=i2LPEu7_w0ubZ9Hef7wksiyrdp-sFAwDqAFjIa_4GrjMjOWJ643MkRMVtbk2rLt2CC1GcE3_ppqgAYyo8gvMDA%3D%3D)). But while many other agencies are centered around a singular name, Creator Camp is building an ecosystem of filmmakers. “At the end of the day, we are really passionate about the movies, in-person experiences, and the events,” Kim said. “So for us, the agency's a way to just continue to fund that.” View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Meet the VC Creator Demystifying Investing View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/412f92b6-e09c-4472-bf6d-8e59b8a912aa/0225_Article_Photo_2_150x.png?t=1772037181) Caption: Marshall Sandman aims to educate newcomers about venture capital / [Marshall Sandman](https://www.instagram.com/p/DPzHolmke3e/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) Should creators invest in [beverage brands](https://www.instagram.com/p/DUq7BK0EfMB/)? Or raise their own funds? VC investor [Marshall Sandman](https://www.instagram.com/marshallsandman/), founder of [Animal Capital](https://www.linkedin.com/company/animalcapital/), is trying to close what he calls the knowledge gap.  “There’s an extreme information gap among the people that want to be in venture capital vs. the people who are,” he told us.  He’s now on day 54 of a 300-day run of short-form videos [breaking down](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DUO1tgvkbCe/) venture basics—already pulling 700K+ Instagram views. **Context: **Sandman got started in investment banking at Goldman Sachs, with his first fund including live shopping platform Whatnot and bioscience company Colossal. In 2021, [he started](https://www.venturecapitaljournal.com/gen-z-focused-venture-firm-animal-capital-debuts/) Animal Capital alongside creators Noah Beck, Griffin Johnson, and Josh Richards. His expertise? Investing in early-stage B2B startups, targeting founders with "disproportionate reasons to win.” The goal is to get in early before valuations inflate and upside shrinks. **The top mistake he sees from creators?** Raising capital to launch businesses in hyper-competitive markets like CPG and retail. “[Raising capital] is almost always a mistake […] I would much rather see a creator hop into a business at that series-A place where it’s two years into business, and say ‘I might not get 40-50% of this, but maybe I can get 5-7%.’” Sandman recommends creators consider verticals that are less capital-intensive such as software, or adjacent verticals to a creator’s expertise.  “I don't think it’s ever too early to consider investing as long as you get really strict with yourself. When you’re making $150K your money is really precious to you,” Sandman said. “But it doesn't mean you shouldn't pick something in an adjacent vertical that you’re passionate about to lend your name and likeness to for equity. Understand the exit opportunities, you have to treat it like it’s your money.” View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Creator Operator Roundup: Execs Make Moves View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/dc7a2d93-cdc4-4e3d-8d7e-3e255cffdc45/0225_Article_Photo_3_150x.png?t=1772037198) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: (Left to right) Former Hallmark exec Alyssa Zeisler joins Critical Role, Gwen Miller moves to Theorist, and Chad Coleman leaves Dude Perfect / [Critical Role](https://variety.com/2026/digital/news/critical-role-beacon-alyssa-zeisler-general-manager-1236671444/), [Gwen Miller](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/gwen-miller-strategy_im-excited-to-share-that-ive-joined-theorist-activity-7419706837266034688-pWWp?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAACK8qD0BCJaJ-3HpKj7JK7pntzFTjd-agTE), [Chad Coleman](https://www.linkedin.com/in/hashtagchad/) Operators across the creator economy have been making strategic career and title changes, leveraging their talent in new ways. Here’s what we’ve been tracking so far in Q1→ **Critical Role** hires former Hallmark exec [Alyssa Zeisler](https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7432113848888778752/?originTrackingId=ZB6vVaRgk9hKa2ICHHz9nQ%3D%3D) as the [general manager](https://variety.com/2026/digital/news/critical-role-beacon-alyssa-zeisler-general-manager-1236671444/) of its streaming service Beacon. At Hallmark, Zeisler oversaw the relaunch of Hallmark+, the studio’s streaming service. Data content expert [Gwen Miller](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/gwen-miller-strategy_im-excited-to-share-that-ive-joined-theorist-activity-7419706837266034688-pWWp/?utm_source=social_share_send&utm_medium=member_desktop_web&rcm=ACoAAAW0s2IB0S0fJXy2ABVl5QgP-_YRYqsfhBU) joins **Theorist** as its new senior director of strategy and operations. Miller previously worked at Mythical as a senior director of creator growth. Former Dude Perfect Chief Brand Officer [Chad Coleman](https://www.linkedin.com/in/hashtagchad/) moves to the **LPGA** as its new CMO. “I believe deeply in building content that resonates, travels across platforms, and meets fans where they are, especially the next generation,” Coleman said in a [press release](https://www.lpga.com/news/2026/chad-coleman-named-lpga-chief-marketing-officer). “As a girl dad, this opportunity carries added meaning, and I’m energized to help expand the LPGA’s reach.” “This is part of a new series we want to run once a quarter featuring creator operator job moves. Have a job or company you’d like usto track? **Hit reply** and let us know.“ — View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Finance creator Vivian Tu](https://variety.com/2026/tv/news/vivian-tu-rich-af-scripted-series-amazon-1236667647/) is adapting her book, _Rich AF_, into a scripted series with Amazon. * [CBS news correspondent David Begnaud](https://www.instagram.com/dogood/?hl=en) launches his own media company, Do Good Crew. * [Video essayist Armchair Historian](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kbrjnNq3aoQ) is retiring from YouTube at the end of the year. * [Threads](https://techcrunch.com/2026/02/20/threads-posts-can-now-be-shared-directly-to-your-instagram-story-without-leaving-the-app/) posts can now be shared to Instagram Stories without leaving the app. * [CarJitsu creators Pro League Network](https://www.proleaguenetwork.com/) launches a 24/7 channel on Prime Video. * [Discord](https://www.theverge.com/tech/878369/discord-persona-age-verification) removes mentions of Persona—a third party age verification company—from its support page after backlash. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/inside-creator-camp-s-ad-agency

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2fb01557-dbc0-429f-b17e-14b030e7698d/0223_Header_150x.png?t=1771864953) Follow image link: (https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.439123404;dc_trk_aid=632186965;dc_trk_cid=248621279;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=${GDPR};gdpr_consent=${GDPR_CONSENT_755};ltd=;dc_tdv=1) Caption: **Good morning.** A24 just shared the [first poster](https://x.com/A24/status/2025933748449989066?s=20) for _Backrooms_, the horror film made by YouTube creator Kane Parsons. If _Backrooms_ is anything like the short film it’s based on, you can catch us sleeping with the lights on for the next 19 years (which is coincidentally how old Parsons is).    — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # How This Creator Projects $5M in Landline Phones View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/c46e76b8-8cc2-418d-bce6-bd9c780161a4/0223_Article_Photo_1_150x.png?t=1771864986) Caption: Cat "CatGPT" Goetze's Physical Phones made $750,000 in its first six months / [Physical Phones](https://physicalphones.com/) Last August, AI education creator Catherine “[CatGPT](https://www.instagram.com/askcatgpt/?hl=en)” Goetze launched a line of bluetooth-powered landline phones, [Physical Phones](https://physicalphones.com/?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnCPUvdmjYsLQbEl2mL3m8-n93RShYyrO-HNrNTv3kaKsOlmADJM5_ZJd-gzY_aem_0QcnbaNcopgCxSf7tPU5OA).** **By the end of the year, the company—made up of Goetze and four part-time staff—[generated](https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7421986623384342528/) $750,000 in revenue. “Usually to get those revenue numbers for a custom hardware product you’re looking at a two- to three-year lead time, massive institutional investment, and a team of five to six full-time people,” Goetze told us. “So the fact that we pulled this off broke every rule.” The key to hitting those marks—with a small team? **Creator distribution + AI tools.** Now Physical Phones is aiming for $5 million in revenue by the end of the year. Here’s how it’ll get there → **Leverage AI. **Goetze said the team used AI to increase output through research, debugging, and expansion. For example, to get phones cleared for the FCC, ChatGPT was able to assist with the legal process that would’ve normally required a consultant. “Our project manager said she couldn’t have done it without ChatGPT and it saved us thousands of dollars,” Goetze said. **Hire smart.** Goetze promoted Physical Phones part-time product manager [Josh Silverman](https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshcsilverman/) to CEO. He’s now responsible for top-line revenue and deciding new sales and marketing funnels (like whether Physical goes into retail or Amazon).  **Focused content strategy. **Goetze will prioritize how Physical Phones fits naturally into her content. “For me, it’s more about leveraging the CatGPT platform overall as a host for the story of how Physical Phones can exist in the first place. Less of ‘hey buy this Physical Phone’ and more ‘here’s how we use AI to get the Physical Phone FCC cleared,’” Goetze said. **Looking ahead: **Goetze is looking to expand to new verticals leveraging AI and creator distribution. “In the last six months I learned, holy sh*t this is not a fluke. This is a formula,” Goetze said. “So why just do this once? Let’s run this back.” View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Behind the New Wave of Creator CPG Deals View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/148c1136-4620-4c44-9b29-a76b880b4afd/0223_Article_Photo_2_150x.png?t=1771865052) Caption: PepsiCo's "Flavor Swapped" line features (left to right) Madison Beer, Dude Perfect, and IShowSpeed / [PepsiCo Foods](https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/celebrity/articles/dude-perfect-craziest-ideas-strike-130028322.html) PepsiCo Foods just announced its first creator-led product line—featuring creators [IShowSpeed](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DU0_1nRkVgV/) and [Dude Perfect](https://www.instagram.com/p/DU1mF1oDBZA/). **Crunch time:** The creators (along with mainstream celebrities like [Madison Beer](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DU008s2gVmY/)) are featured on the packaging of new “Flavor Swapped” chips. For example, Dude Perfect on Ruffles “Cool Ranch” flavor. In addition to retail, the chips will be sold on TikTok Shop.  **Worth noting: **In recent years creators have flooded the CPG market—from launching products to joining brands as investors—with varying success.  * **KSI and Logan Paul’s** [PRIME](https://drinkprime.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoprVxk0f8anShUZ4a7GAxZ-vyhx74qP9hJ6x_ZNMJSClkefWN3m) drink [sales decreased](https://www.businessinsider.com/logan-paul-ksi-prime-energy-drink-sales-decline-2025-6) by 70% in 2024 following multiple lawsuits and lack of repeat customers.  * **Beast Industries** CEO Jeffery Housenbold shared last fall that CPG products including Feastables and Lunchly [make up](https://www.youtube.com/live/N9gSO66oC6U) half of Beast Industries’ revenue.  * **Emma Chamberlain’s** Chamberlain Coffee operated at a loss in 2024, despite $22 million in sales.  **Big picture:** With legacy CPG brands under pressure (Frito-Lay [volume](https://www.wfsb.com/2026/02/03/pepsico-plans-price-cuts-doritos-cheetos-lays-more/) fell last quarter, Campbell's snack revenue [is down](https://www.bakeryandsnacks.com/Article/2025/09/09/campbells-snacks-sales-slide-as-americans-cut-back/)) creators could be the key to unlocking a new growth lever. And the win for creators? Reinforced star power in grocery aisles and bodegas. What do you think? Will we be seeing more creator faces on chips and cereal boxes? **Hit reply **and let us know your thoughts. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: Sponsored by [Apple Creator Studio](https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.439123404;dc_trk_aid=632186965;dc_trk_cid=248621279;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=${GDPR};gdpr_consent=${GDPR_CONSENT_755};ltd=;dc_tdv=1) # All Your Creative Tools Working Together View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/c1d1e4ce-c711-4f2b-b321-b970664046c7/1200x700_APPS_Press_Publish_Primary_Newsletter_Placement_Custom1x.webp?t=1771865270) Follow image link: (https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.439123404;dc_trk_aid=632186965;dc_trk_cid=248621279;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=${GDPR};gdpr_consent=${GDPR_CONSENT_755};ltd=;dc_tdv=1) Caption: Apple Creator Studio brings together the best of Apple’s apps on Mac and iPad for video, music, design, and productivity into one low-priced subscription * Final Cut Pro gives you smarter, faster ways to craft and cut captivating videos. * Pixelmator Pro lets everyone reimagine images, create striking graphics, paint, draw, illustrate, and so much more. * Logic Pro helps you produce music and perfect audio — bringing brilliance to every beat. * Supercharged productivity apps bring intelligent features to help you get more done in Keynote, Pages, and Numbers. With Apple Creator Studio, it’s all yours for the making. [Start creating now with a free trial](https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.439123404;dc_trk_aid=632186965;dc_trk_cid=248621279;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=${GDPR};gdpr_consent=${GDPR_CONSENT_755};ltd=;dc_tdv=1). View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # What eBay’s Depop Acquisition Means for Creators View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/b7efd3d0-be03-4160-8ebc-f57fd98bdf8d/0223_Article_Photo_3_150x.png?t=1771865129) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: eBay (left) purchases Depop (right) from Etsy / [eBay](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPm9B4gD54H/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==), [Depop](https://www.instagram.com/p/DOWpfqQjJFw/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) If eBay is the nerdy uncle of online shopping, and Depop is its cool, Gen Z nephew, then they just formed the [LMFAO](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQ6zr6kCPj8&list=RDKQ6zr6kCPj8&start_radio=1) of ecommerce. Last week, eBay bought clothing resale site Depop from Etsy for $1.2 billion. **Context:** Depop is a favorite among fashion and lifestyle creators alike, with creators like [Marissa’s Y2K Heaven](https://www.instagram.com/marissas_y2k_heaven/?hl=en) and [Heidi Aspi](https://www.tiktok.com/@heidi.asp/video/7565307874163920149?q=depop&t=1771862778758) selling their wares on the platform. eBay has not disclosed how or if Depop would change with the acquisition, but the magnitude of the deal is on par with luxury brands—like Prada Group’s [purchase](https://hypebeast.com/2026/2/ebay-depop-sale-1-billion-acquisition-resale-secondhand-apparel-market-info) of Versace for $1.3 billion.  **Worth noting: **Last fall, TikTok Shop reported $19 billion in sales—making it the same size as eBay. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 👀 Job Board * **Joshua Weismann **is hosting a competition to find his next [long-form editor](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2188729-long-form-editor-joshua-weissman). * **Tejas Hullur and Colt Kirwan** are looking for a [video editor](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2188726-video-editor-tejas-hullur) for a three-month project starting in March. * **Airrack** is hosting a competition to find a [video producer](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2188730-long-form-producer-airrack) to help with research and location scouting. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Los Angeles County](https://x.com/PopCrave/status/2024649596463698166?s=20) sues Roblox over alleged child endangerment. * [Glitch](https://x.com/VIZMedia/status/2024910719854993646?s=20) is releasing a manga book this fall. * [Creators for Peace](https://www.instagram.com/p/DVEZVJmEYTF/?hl=en) reaches $350K of their $500K goal, raising money for the National Immigration Law Center. * [Vibecoded podcast ](https://x.com/levychain/status/2024646541328437292?s=20)_[The Epstein Files](https://x.com/levychain/status/2024646541328437292?s=20)_ charts on Apple Podcasts just two weeks after being created. * [Interior design creator LoneFox](https://youtu.be/KRZMNBpaUQo?si=Sfco_YDzIogHcOA4) is opening a retail store in Los Angeles. * [Snap’s](https://newsroom.snap.com/snap-1b-direct-revenue-25m-subscription) paid subscription service, Snapchat+, surpasses 25 million subscribers. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/ai-creator-bets-big-on-landlines

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/b47447b8-1498-4ff2-aa45-2ed3f4927c0a/0220_Header_No_Sponsor_150x.png?t=1771606836) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning.** The trailer for _Toy Story 5_ just dropped, and Woody is up against a smart tablet threatening to render him obsolete. Throw some Italian brainrot on there and Woody doesn’t stand a chance. Sorry, pal. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Johnny Harris Launches Algorithm-Free News Site View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/352b0868-b27e-42f5-91ec-8e23aa87db41/0220_Article_Photo_1_150x.png?t=1771606850) Caption: Johnny Harris, Sam Ellis, Christophe Haubursin, and Max Fisher launch a community journalism platform Newpress / [Johnny Harris](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0rKDo3hKbVk), [Christophe](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LGIF8nFUNQQ) Newpress, the media company founded by ex-_Vox_ video journalists Johnny and Iz Harris, [just announced](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0rKDo3hKbVk) its next project: a [news platform](https://newpress.com/#:~:text=Johnny%20Harris,you%20along%20for%20the%20journey.) made for “creator-led, community-driven journalism.” “It’s our answer to a world where a handful of platforms run by the richest man now decide what billions of us see, read, and believe,” Johnny said in the launch video. **How it works:** Newpress operates like a membership platform, where users join for free or pay $5/month for bonus content. Its network of journalists including [Johnny](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmGSJVG3mCRXVOP4yZrU1Dw), [Sam Ellis](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7KbIaEOuY7H2j-cvhJ3mYA), [Christophe Haubursin](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqykZoZjaOPb6i_Y5gk0kLQ), and [Max Fisher](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqPTW4CeoAgq111DA__mP9g) will curate stories and members can chime in with their perspectives, questions, and expertise. **Inside the network:** Newpress [owns](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/the-future-of-youtube-explainers-is-here) Johnny, Ellis, Haubursin, and Fisher’s respective channels and pays each journalist a salary with a revenue share. Journalists are also supported by a network of Newpress editors, producers, animators, with business operation support and editorial feedback. Johnny said Newpress plans to expand its network of journalists, though it's unclear in what capacity.  **Building community:** “Anyone that’s followed me for a while knows I’ve loved crowd-sourced journalism. That’s what ‘Vox Borders’ was all about and over the years I’ve always leaned on the community to make my journalism better,” Johnny said. “Newpress is just that vision put onto a platform with a lot of resources and people to help make it happen.” View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Inside the Channel Launch of an Ex-Veritasium Staff Member View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/9f2b9915-c45c-441f-a007-819398bb3e45/0220_Article_Photo_2_150x.png?t=1771607150) Caption: With experience working for large STEM creators like Veritasium and Cleo Abram, Emily Zhang starts her own channel, Rabbit Hole / [Rabbit Hole](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0sHT2HJE2U) One astrophysics degree + five years working for the largest STEM creators on YouTube = 60K subscribers in one week. At least, that’s the equation that worked for Emily Zhang. Zhang’s new YouTube channel [Rabbit Hole](https://www.youtube.com/@rabbithole_video) seeks to answer life’s most mundane questions such as, “[why do office chairs have five legs](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kKt46Lch2bo)?” **How she got here:** Zhang started at [Veritasium](https://www.youtube.com/@veritasium) in 2021 assisting founder Derek Muller, and worked her way up to writing and directing videos for the channel. In 2024, she left Veritasium to freelance for other STEM creators like Cleo Abram and Mark Rober.  “I don't think I would have been able to do it without having first worked for a creator and then also having gone freelance,” Zhang told us.  By learning video strategy and production processes from around ten different channels, she gained the confidence to start Rabbit Hole.  “The whole point of [Rabbit Hole] is being accessible to everyone. That's what I want,” Zhang said. “I think a lot of people watch creators aspirationally. And I really don't want this to be aspirational. I want [people to] watch it and relate to it.”  And viewers definitely relate. Zhang’s channel monetized in less than 24 hours, and now sits at 63K subscribers and 580K views between two videos—with the only promo being a [community post](https://www.youtube.com/@veritasium/posts) on Veritasium’s YouTube page. **Looking ahead:** Zhang plans to continue freelancing, which funds her Rabbit Hole videos. Although her channel is growing quickly, she intends to continue answering small questions in big ways. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Why Dropout is Copying Broadcast TV View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/16edec66-090c-427d-b2b6-fe904e3bc6f8/0220_Article_Photo_3_150x__1_.png?t=1771609249) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Dropout is launching a 24/7 channel to its streaming platform, DropoutTV / [Dropout](https://www.polygon.com/q-and-a/553902/game-changer-season-7-premiere-one-year-later-paraloubis-voice-mail-musical/) Comedy media company [Dropout](https://www.youtube.com/collegehumor) is on a run of nostalgic business experiments. Earlier this month it released two seasons of its game show, _Game Changer_, [on Blu-Ray](https://store.dropout.tv/products/game-changer-season-1-2-blu-ray-disc-set?srsltid=AfmBOooL76-GMa1sqlMHdSXrL2rgiVpa4-pkqg5i59ivmDnLg0q2tYkh) (which has since sold out).  Starting February 18, Dropout is taking a page out of broadcast television’s playbook with a [24/7 channel](http://youtube.com/watch?time_continue=28&v=QmFu1RYyfJQ&embeds_referring_euri=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.polygon.com%2Fdropout-tv-24-7-channel-dimension-20%2F&source_ve_path=MzY4NDIsMzY4NDIsMjM4NTE) on its streaming service, [DropoutTV](https://www.dropout.tv/). Unlike creator FAST channels, Dropout’s channel will be ad-free, as it's supported by paid members. “When you log onto DropoutTV, you’re bombarded with choices of what to watch [...] Well, choose no more,” Dropout CEO Sam Reich said in the announcement video. **Big picture: **Broadcast viewership has declined in the [streaming era](https://www.nielsen.com/data-center/the-gauge/). Yet with an over-abundance of content, some viewers crave the lean-back experience it provided.  “If this proves to be popular, we’ll look into doing even more with it—multiple 24/7 channels, special broadcast, event weekends, bonus programs,” Reich said. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [iJustine](https://www.instagram.com/p/DU3QS8vjeqf/?hl=en) celebrates 20 years on YouTube. * [Lifestyle creator Haley Baylee](https://digiday.com/media/from-feeds-to-streets-how-mega-influencer-haley-baylee-is-diversifying-beyond-platform-algorithms/) is coming to LinkNYC screens across New York. * [OpenAI](https://www.vanityfair.com/news/story/openai-hires-charles-porch-instagram) hires Instagram’s former vice president of global partnerships, Charles Porch, to expand into creator and celebrity partnerships. * [New York Nico](https://www.instagram.com/p/DU8aVX7jE8r/) launches a short-form show, _Revival of the Fittest_. * [YouTube’s first video ‘Me at the Zoo’](https://www.tubefilter.com/2026/02/18/youtube-first-video-me-at-the-zoo-victoria-albert-museum/) is now on display at a museum in London. * [Lil Dicky](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mBGKr-mORTc&feature=youtu.be) is launching a YouTube talk show, _Friends Keep Secrets_. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 📚️ Thank You for Pressing Publish _The content we’re looking forward to reading, watching, and listening to this weekend._ * **Read:** _GQ_ writer Andrew Fedorov explores why so many [streamers are “Chinamaxxing”](https://www.gq.com/story/why-internet-stars-are-chinamaxxing?utm_source=scalablepod.com&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=big-tech-is-hot-and-cold-on-creators&_bhlid=4aa8cb9dd46ed5e91aad3bcf110ed540c72467a5) and spending more time in the country. * **Watch:** Video essayist Max JR Miller [ranks the top](http://youtube.com/watch?si=4ySz-nSrtZMJNxFc&v=dNKlpi7SJ6g&feature=youtu.be') “I’m going to Disney World” shouts from Super Bowl MVPs. * **Listen:** Snapback Sports investigates how a second grade teacher [revived](https://youtu.be/p8HcTu2plYQ?si=FXXRLOwLJhhm_F6b) popular ‘90s computer game franchise, Backyard Sports. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/inside-johnny-harris-algorithm-free-news-site

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/56dc46e1-ca7e-44e2-b0e6-0729e3bdae0c/0218_Header_150x.jpg?t=1771435675) Follow image link: (https://www.adobe.com/events/creativecollective.html) Caption: **Good morning.** ICYMI, YouTube experienced a rare outage yesterday, with almost 300K US users unable to access the platform. The outage only lasted a few minutes, but creators everywhere experienced the five stages of grief…followed by “guess I’ll refresh one more time.” — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Inside Night Media’s $70M Investment View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/6e930199-17ae-4a01-8681-361a722ac4e3/0218_Article_Photo_1_150x.png?t=1771434238) Caption: Creator talent management company Night Media receives VC funding / [Night Media](https://www.night.co/) [Night Media](https://www.night.co/)—the talent management company representing creators such as Kai Cenat, The Rizzler, and Haley Pham—just raised $70 million in funding to expand into music, sports, and live events. **The details:** Private equity firm StepStone Group led the funding round with four other investors including VC firms Founders Fund and K5Global. Beyond expanding into media, Night plans to use the investment to fund acquisitions of creator-forward companies. **Worth noting:** Last month creator management firm Fixated [received](https://www.latimes.com/b2b/banking-finance/story/2026-01-13/fixated-eldridge-industries-investment) a $50 million investment from holding company Eldridge Industries to expand into mergers and acquisitions and original content. **Zoom out: **With 130+ employees, Night has played a role in creator brands like AMP’s Tone, and its CEO Reed Duchscher sits on the board of MrBeast’s Feastables. The company also runs a VC arm and acquired podcast studio The Roost Network in 2024. Sourcing talent from the creator economy will remain the top priority for Night, according [to Duchscher](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-02-17/manager-of-internet-s-biggest-stars-raises-70-million-to-expand?srnd=undefined). “The future writers, producers, directors of the world are on YouTube and TikTok right now,” Duchscher told _Bloomberg_. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Can Creators Save Broadway? View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/d99ea730-84b2-45c0-b464-f2f6c9c38027/0218_Article_Photo_2_150x.jpg?t=1771434558) Caption: (Left to right) Jake Shane, Whitney Leavitt, and Dylan Mulvaney make it to Broadway / [Jake Shane](https://www.instagram.com/p/DUtvaVJktli/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==), Photography by [Avery Brunkus](https://scontent-sea5-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.82787-15/625981728_18560702224051243_1411610725091709889_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ig_cache_key=MzgyNDM2MTM2NzY2NzY0MDM0NQ%3D%3D.3-ccb7-5&ccb=7-5&_nc_sid=58cdad&efg=eyJ2ZW5jb2RlX3RhZyI6InhwaWRzLjEwODB4MTM1MC5zZHIuQzMifQ%3D%3D&_nc_ohc=EKxziLheyPQQ7kNvwGwlf4m&_nc_oc=AdkSYD_sOwbTutLbC2vfR8xc_iw3wKraZq-ZvLuz8PYB6lzmlCq8zsYgzi9NF-UCfBE&_nc_ad=z-m&_nc_cid=0&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-sea5-1.cdninstagram.com&_nc_gid=lHTinDBZSSb0N_x0qYYFEQ&oh=00_AfvuMpBXbOYDbCAbq4N5CE_Sghz3efr_0lsduR525nFZ-w&oe=699BD525) and [Jennifer Broski](https://www.instagram.com/p/DUyV2zzjzxy/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) ( Five-hundred twenty-five thousand, six hundred…[followers](https://youtu.be/W1wKMg_AZHc?si=GEFy7tsidkTlbUqZ&t=72)? Several creators are making their Broadway debut this month amid a difficult financial season for Broadway theaters. **Set the stage:** * Last night, comedy creator and podcaster **Jake Shane** [stepped onstage](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DU4crLODIax/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==) in _All Out: Comedy About Ambition_, fulfilling a [lifelong dream](https://www.instagram.com/p/DU3Ji6mEVaX/?hl=en) of his. The play runs until March 8. * MomTok creator [Whitney Leavitt](https://www.instagram.com/p/DURDa6cj8-_/?hl=en) debuted in _Chicago_ earlier this month playing the lead, Roxie Hart. * Lifestyle creator [Dylan Mulvaney](https://www.instagram.com/p/DU11M-njKwY/?hl=en) is currently in _Six_, playing Henry VIII’s wife Anne Boleyn. **Behind the curtain:** Rising production costs and falling audience turnout have led to unprofitable Broadway shows in [recent years](https://www.nytimes.com/2025/09/22/theater/broadway-musicals-finances.html). Weekly operating costs run nearly [$1.5 million](https://www.thetimes.com/us/opinion/article/broadway-can-blame-its-greedy-self-for-going-bust-50vtwnnzk?gaa_at=eafs&gaa_n=AWEtsqdjkUO74qkeRubfGtij4VAxLK1BgTcdbsblazHxhVqTm8x7UU3J1YhlKydZT6Q%3D&gaa_ts=6995e109&gaa_sig=yQEXK_YZCmbAiQCqS91r93aC0JSSljupTlqQQhJVtwrhNhRCQWwFHXyFNpphGP1AkjA_1uo0Sq1t4IgHzhkL6Q%3D%3D) per week, and original musicals have about a 7% chance of becoming profitable according to _The New York Times_.  Amid those difficulties, some creators have shown success on stage. Last week, Broadway extended Leavitt’s run as _Chicago_ [grossed $1.4 million](https://deadline.com/2026/02/broadway-box-office-whitney-leavitt-chicago-1236726935/), its highest week since the end of 2023. Last year Trisha Paytas sold out her one-night-only Broadway show and appeared in _Beetlejuice_ to a [more-than-receptive audience](https://www.tiktok.com/@beetlejuicebway/video/7569046857268071711). As more creators join casts of prestigious productions—and start their own—could their built-in audience be the difference between a flop or financial success? View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: Sponsored by [Adobe](https://www.adobe.com/events/creativecollective.html) # AI’s Next Chapter for Creators View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/67fa5419-b4c2-4821-8931-6b1275e8ba75/2400_x_1350.webp?t=1771434459) Follow image link: (https://www.adobe.com/events/creativecollective.html) Caption: AI tools are evolving fast. And the big question isn’t about what they can do for creators. It’s what they mean for your craft and career. That’s why Adobe launched the **Adobe Creative Collective**, a new group with experts from design, photography, filmmaking, illustration, and emerging tech. It includes voices like BrandonB, a VFX creator with over 16 million subscribers on YouTube. The collective will offer practical insights around building sustainable creative work. They’ll also share how new tools like **Firefly**, Adobe’s all-in-one creative AI studio, are being used in actual workflows. [Get to know the Adobe Creative Collective](https://www.adobe.com/events/creativecollective.html). And if you want to get hands-on, [start creating with Adobe Firefly](https://www.adobe.com/products/firefly.html) to unlock unlimited video and image generations View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # YouTube Tops Nielsen Streaming Charts for Three Years Running View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/93b6ab16-8582-4715-9e1d-ae3e14aff135/0218_Article_Photo_3_150x.png?t=1771434913) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: YouTube is the most-watched streaming platform for the past three years / [Nielsen](https://www.nielsen.com/data-center/the-gauge/) YouTube led all streaming platforms on TV in January, capturing 12.6% of total streaming viewership, according to Nielsen’s latest [monthly report](https://www.nielsen.com/data-center/the-gauge/). Netflix followed at 8.8%.  The rank marks YouTube’s** third consecutive year** as the most-watched streaming platform on TV.  To unpack what that means for creators, we talked to [Kurt Wilms](https://www.linkedin.com/in/kwilms/), senior director of product management for YouTube on TV and [Romana Pawar](https://www.linkedin.com/in/romana-pawar-651a55/), senior director of product management for YouTube Ads. **How YouTube has stayed No. 1: **“From the ads side, we’re evolving the experience in the living room to match what viewers want and expect on the big screen,” Pawar said. For example, fewer, longer ad breaks, and more non-interupptive formats.  **How that affects creators:** YouTube is creating more opportunities for creators to optimize for TV, from expanding thumbnail file size limits to organizing videos by seasons and episodes. **Big picture:** YouTube’s streaming dominance is having a ripple effect on other platforms, from creator FAST [partnerships](https://news.samsung.com/us/samsung-tv-plus-partners-with-top-creators-announces-first-original-content-deal-scripted-creator-dhar-mann/) with Roku and Samsung to Netflix [offering creators](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/the-youtuber-netflix-couldn-t-ignore) podcast and streaming deals.  “What we’re seeing now is the YouTube effect—where other platforms are transforming their talent lineups, content formats, and media strategies to offer something similar to ours,” Wilms said. “It’s indicative of a massive pendulum shift on where YouTube stacks up against traditional platforms.” View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * _[How Long Gone](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eJWeFLjgeKc)_[ podcast](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eJWeFLjgeKc) launches a new comedy series with creative studios Talkhouse and Amplify Pictures. * [Substack](https://on.substack.com/p/what-the-markets-are-saying) partners with Polymarket to embed prediction market data into its user interface. * [Business creators TBPN](https://www.semafor.com/newsletter/02/15/2026/semafor-media-fishing-mentality) charge brands nearly $1 million per year for sponsorships, according to Semafor’s recent newsletter. * [Snap](https://newsroom.snap.com/snapchat-launches-creator-subscriptions) launches creator subscriptions. * [Apple](https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/02/apple-introduces-a-new-video-podcast-experience-on-apple-podcasts/) introduces video capabilities for its podcasts. * [Travel creator Olivia Ferney](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/olivia-ferney-travelwithlivii-adapted-fifth-season-series-1236500549/) is making a scripted show with production company Fifth Season. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/night-media-secures-70m-investment

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/4d4d8d71-820b-499c-88d8-e75e1e31901e/0216_Header_No_Sponsor_150x__1_.png?t=1771260561) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning.** It’s been over a week since the MrBeast x Salesforce Super Bowl ad challenged viewers to solve a puzzle for $1 million…and the puzzle still hasn't been solved. Now, MrBeast is sharing [clues](https://x.com/MrBeast/status/2022691066932297897) to help people find the answer. Anyone down to team up and split the winnings? You investigate the YouTube videos, we’ll sift through the tweets. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # NBA Puts a Spotlight on Creators View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/df3faf47-1e33-46be-b271-9df9e3aa3759/0216_Article_Photo_1_150x.png?t=1771260642) Caption: (Left to right) Andrew Fenichel, Jesser, and Druski participate in the NBA's All-Star Weekend activities / [Andrew Fenichel](https://x.com/Andrew_Fenichel/status/2023113810874437707?s=20), [Jesser](https://www.instagram.com/p/DUojrMtEkvm/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==), [Vital Versatility](https://x.com/i/status/2021949493374259431) Over the weekend, creators came to play for the NBA's All-Star Weekend in Los Angeles. This year, the league invited a [record 200](https://pr.nba.com/nba-all-star-2026-creators/) creators to capture content, host events, and gain exclusive access. **Here’s why it matters for creators ➡️** “It’s the Super Bowl of the NBA,” sports creator [Andrew Fenichel](https://www.instagram.com/drewfenny/) told us—the league’s biggest moment for business and culture.  **Context:** All-Star Weekend is less about on-court skills (players often save their best efforts for the [playoffs](https://www.nba.com/playoffs/2025) and Finals) and more about entertainment and brand exposure. And that makes the weekend big for creator opportunities. This weekend, Jesser took over the NBA’s [social channels](https://www.youtube.com/shorts/HBcNiSdSdEE), Druski and PlaqueBoyMax [competed](https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nba/chicago-bears/news/druski-caleb-williams-nightmare-nba-celebrity-3-point-contest/3e87082edcce0ee2e4a1bec5?utm_source=yahoo&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=appeared_on) in a three-point contest, and Dude Perfect’s [Cody Jones](https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Braq7wE4-xg) played in the celebrity all-star game.  Fenichel said being invited meant exclusive access for his audience—and unexpected moments.  * “There’s opportunity from just being in the building,” Fenichel said. For example, last year’s Rising Stars game [led to](https://x.com/Andrew_Fenichel/status/1893347710318567770) a chance for him to shoot content with NBA legend Brian Scalabrine.  * **And the brand opportunities are significant.** More than 60 sponsors attended, from blue-chip companies including Amex and Google to sportswear names such as New Balance, Nike, and [Slam Magazine](https://www.instagram.com/slam/?hl=en). The NBA, which [didn’t pay](https://variety.com/2026/biz/news/jesser-nba-all-star-weekend-creators-los-angeles-content-1236657802/) many creators to attend All-Star Weekend, said it’s partnering creators with brands for sponsorships. **And the fan angle? **It’s considerable. For example: More than 500 fans attended a live taping of Enjoy Basketball’s _[Numbers on the Board](https://www.instagram.com/notbpod)_ podcast in downtown LA. _[All The Smoke](https://www.instagram.com/allthesmoke/)_ podcast also hosted an event at The Lighthouse in Venice.  **So what does the NBA get out of the creator tie-ins? **More eyeballs—on social feeds and TV screens alike. The NBA (which, for what it’s worth, has a history of being [more lenient](https://www.gobb.ie/p/sport-needs-to-embrace-clip-sharing) on copyright content) has invested heavily in creators—and it’s paid off. The league had [12% more](https://www.nba.com/news/2025-playoffs-viewership-up-12-percent-from-last-year-on-espn-platforms) viewers watching the Playoffs last year, an increase it [largely attributed](https://www.forbes.com/sites/jonyoushaei/2025/05/25/the-nbas-creator-playbook-inside-its-modern-media-machine/) to more creator content. As the NFL and MLB [ramp](https://www.mlb.com/news/mlb-jomboy-media-strategic-partnership) [up](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LJDZf6DfCxI) their own creator efforts, the NBA is doing its best to stay ahead. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Seedance 2.0, Explained View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/3a720c35-8ce7-4e1d-b557-9f6d8ca37ff8/0216_Article_Photo_2_150x.png?t=1771260673) Caption: Bytedance's AI video generator Seedance 2 goes viral for its lifelike depiction of Brad Pitt (left) fighting Tom Cruise (right) / [X](https://x.com/i/status/2021949493374259431) Last week, several clips of Tom Cruise [fighting Brad Pitt](https://x.com/Eng_china5/status/2021949493374259431?s=20) and [Spider-Man](https://x.com/azed_ai/status/2020860565414183271) taking on a monster were all over our timelines. Why? Because 1) they were made with a new generative AI video tool from ByteDance called [Seedance 2.0](https://seed.bytedance.com/en/seedance2_0) and 2) they looked _very real_—with believable sounds, faces, and body movements. **How Seedance works →** * Seedance can create videos (currently 15 seconds or less) based on short text prompts. * Videos can include a storyline with scene changes and distinct characters. * The model is currently available to Chinese users of ByteDance’s Jianying app and will soon be available to global CapCut users, according to [the ](https://www.wsj.com/tech/ai/tiktoks-chinese-parent-has-an-app-to-replace-hollywood-7b31c6df)_[WSJ](https://www.wsj.com/tech/ai/tiktoks-chinese-parent-has-an-app-to-replace-hollywood-7b31c6df)_. **Pushback against Seedance has been swift. **[SAG-AFTRA](https://x.com/sagaftra/status/2022442601321001277) and the [Motion Picture Association](https://www.motionpictures.org/press/motion-picture-association-calls-for-bytedance-to-cease-seedance-2-0-infringing-activity/) denounced the tool and filed copyright infringement claims against it. Disney sent a [cease-and-desist](https://www.axios.com/2026/02/13/disney-bytedance-seedance?stream=top&utm_source=alert&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=alerts_media_trends) letter accusing ByteDance of supplying Seedance with a “pirated library” of its copyrighted characters. **What creators are saying: **Much of the sentiment is doom and gloom. “I hate to say it. It’s likely over for us,” Ryan Reese, screenwriter of movies like _Deadpool_ and_ Zombieland_, said [on X](https://x.com/RhettReese/status/2021446414337966098). **Big picture: **Users [noted](https://x.com/Sino_Market/status/2020660940501623151) that Seedance video quality is much higher than Open AI’s Sora 2 video generator, which released late last year to similar [backlash](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/how-sora-2-impacts-creators).  OpenAI was responsive to those concerns, implementing safeguards that made it more difficult for users to violate studio copyrights. Will ByteDance do the same? Yesterday, the company [said it’s](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c93wq6xqgy1o) “taking steps to strengthen current safeguards,” but it hasn’t explained how. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Inside X’s $1 Million Article Contest View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/e6fcaf7a-ce4e-43ae-8e46-d75738ba06a1/0216_Article_Photo_3_150x.png?t=1771260932) Caption: X user 'Beaver' aka Chuck (left) wins the platform's most-viewed article contest for a $1 million prize / [Beaver](https://x.com/beaverd) X kicked off the year with [several](https://x.com/nikitabier/status/2010277345651990564/photo/1) [initiatives](https://x.com/nikitabier/status/2008805057849082018) to get more articles posted on the platform. But the [noisiest](https://x.com/elonmusk/status/2013122670070493414)? A [$1 million prize](https://x.com/nikitabier/status/2012307256444854693) for the user who posted the platform’s top article. **The winner: **a tech and crypto professional who goes by [Beaver](https://x.com/beaverd) (he said we could call him Chuck). His [essay](https://x.com/beaverd/status/2013366996180574446), “Deloitte, a $74 billion cancer metastasized across America,” received 44 million views during the two-week giveaway period. Other [finalists](https://xarticles.xultra.fun/) included entrepreneurs [Dan Koe](https://x.com/thedankoe/status/2012956603297964167) and [Tim Denning](https://x.com/Tim_Denning/status/2013552215097778231). **Chuck’s POV: **He said the article took off fast, with 4–5 million views on day one. Elon Musk reposted it the next day, and Chuck said he gained 30K followers overnight. “For me, X is where the synthesis of ideas happens. Typically things that happen on X are weeks or months ahead of the rest of the corporate [world],” Chuck told us.   **Big picture:** X is angling to engage more creators on the platform at a time when user activity is on [the decline](https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/tech-news/x-sees-largest-user-exodus-musk-takeover-rcna179793). Daily active users decreased [10% year-over-year](https://techcrunch.com/2025/07/10/as-x-loses-its-ceo-daily-usage-is-down-and-competition-is-growing/) in 2025, three years after Musk acquired the platform. “I think there’s room for articles on the platform and I think that’s [X’s] goal—to get as much screenshare as they can of people’s time, so the less people have to click off the better,” Chuck said. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 👀 Creator Jobs * **Answer in Progress** is hiring a [creative producer](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2167500-creative-producer-answer-in-progress) to lead projects from pre- to post-production. * **Sports lifestyle creator Uyi Omorogbe** is hiring a [social content editor](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2162120-editor-social-media-content-ophsides) for his fashion brand, Ophsides. * **Full Squad Gaming** is looking for a [graphic designer](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2163477-graphic-designer-hard-carry-medi) to work on motion graphics, animation, and YouTube thumbnails. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Crocs](https://www.instagram.com/p/DUqsnDZjx_l/) launches a microdrama series with CAA. * [Syracuse University](https://news.syr.edu/2026/02/06/center-for-the-creator-economy-ramps-up-with-new-space-initiatives-and-tour/) debuts a creator economy minor and campus content group. * [Glitch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3oC8ta-7Rds) greenlights its first 2D animation, _Knights of Guinivere_. * [Apple Creator Studio](https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.439121415;dc_trk_aid=632188090;dc_trk_cid=248691022;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=$%7BGDPR%7D;gdpr_consent=$%7BGDPR_CONSENT_755%7D;ltd=;dc_tdv=1) brings the best creative apps for film, music, design, and more together in one subscription. Try your first month free. Then pay just $12.99 a month._*_ * [Good Good Golf](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7RG-rTOUIKE) launches a new channel ft. their top players competing against pros. * Drowning in social media chaos? Geekout cuts through the noise.[ Subscribe free for expert insights](https://l.gourl.es/l/52adea64dd641345d3492cf43c2c2b4828f7fc9b?u=4908323). _*This is sponsored content_ View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/200-creators-one-all-star-weekend

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/eccdcb46-acb4-4235-bbc6-7bab680a1af8/0213_Header_200x__1_.png?t=1771000795) Follow image link: (https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.438628645;dc_trk_aid=632037567;dc_trk_cid=248618636;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=${GDPR};gdpr_consent=${GDPR_CONSENT_755};ltd=;dc_tdv=1) Caption: **Good morning.** After 13 years, Stevie Wynne Levine, Mythical's Chief Creative Officer and the voice behind _Good Mythical Morning_, [just announced](https://youtu.be/E4aDp87hLbE?si=giIEWwvny1hE_u4U&t=1068) her departure from the company. "With everything going on in the world right now, and these larger life conversations that the guys and I have had, I've come to realize I need to start putting myself first. And to do that I need to find a way to go back to doing what I love the most: creating," Levine said in a video. From working with Rhett and Link in a makeshift garage studio to building one of the largest media companies—that's one incredible run. Best of luck to Stevie. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Why Senate Democrats Want Creators in the Room View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/e520d0ea-167e-46cf-9740-68ddd2f346a2/0213_Article_Photo_1_200x__1_.png?t=1771000812) Caption: Creators like Haley Lickstein (left) attend the Senate Democrats’ first Creator Summit hosted by Senator Cory Booker (right) / [Haley Lickstein](https://www.haleylickstein.com/media), [Photography](https://www.flickr.com/photos/gageskidmore/48644726008) by Gage Skidmore/CC BY-SA 2.0 This week, 100 news and political creators gathered at the US Capitol for the Senate Democrats’ first creator summit. It was hosted by the Strategic Communications Committee, led by [Senator Cory Booker](https://www.instagram.com/corybooker/). **The mission?** Educate creators on Democrat priorities and how to talk about policy without spreading misinformation. Attendees ranged from social-first media companies like [Betches](https://www.instagram.com/p/DUoKtkcj6Tx/) to individual creators including news creator [Aaron Parnas](https://www.instagram.com/aaronparnas/), commentator [Cats on a Couch](https://www.instagram.com/catsonacouch/), and political creator [Haley Lickstein](https://www.instagram.com/haleylickstein/). “I do want to make sure I'm up to the standards of journalistic integrity,” Lickstein told us. “How can we make sure we're connected with people whose life's work is being knowledgeable on these topics, especially when the news is moving as fast as it is?” **The agenda:** Each creator’s schedule varied by their content specialty. While Lickstein interviewed 12 Democratic senators throughout the conference for her socials, other creators attended hearings, toured the Capitol, and heard from speakers like Senators Elizabeth Warren and Jon Ossoff. **Big picture:** Since losing the 2024 US election, Democrats have been making a concerted effort to strengthen [its ties](https://blog.youtube/inside-youtube/youtube-in-session-connects-creators-and-policymakers/) with creators. Senate Democrats' followers across socials are [up 80%](https://www.ms.now/news/cory-booker-monstrous-leap-senate-democrats-social-media?utm_campaign=scoop-senate-democrats-to-host-creator-summit&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=scalablepod.com) from 2024, and Democrats have been on a search [for donors](https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/20/us/politics/democrats-influencers-trump.html?utm_campaign=scoop-senate-democrats-to-host-creator-summit&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=scalablepod.com) to fund their equivalent of “the next Joe Rogan.”  View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Why This YouTube Channel Bought a TV Show View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/73c230bc-b0db-4d67-b94b-a4cd1a66e138/0213_Article_Photo_2_200x__1_.png?t=1771000862) Caption: YouTube channel Law&Crime, founded by Dan Abrams (left), purchases Court TV / [Law&Crime](https://lawandcrime.com/dan-abrams/), Court TV As YouTube takes over the living room, some digital-first media brands are flipping the script—and buying broadcast TV. Legal YouTube channel [Law&Crime](https://www.youtube.com/@LawAndCrime), which shares crime commentary to over 7 million subscribers, just [purchased](https://deadline.com/2026/02/court-tv-acquired-by-dan-abrams-law-and-crime-1236713288/) longtime cable show Court TV. **Context, your honor:** TV personality [Dan Abrams](https://www.instagram.com/dan_abrams/?hl=en) got his start as a production assistant on Court TV in 1992 before moving to NBC as a correspondent, eventually launching Law&Crime in 2015. * Court TV was an early pioneer in live trial coverage, airing the OJ Simpson and Menendez brothers trials in the 1990s.  * Time Warner acquired it in 2006 and rebranded it as truTV in 2008, phasing out most of the courtroom content.  * In 2019, broadcast company EW Scripps revived Court TV amid the true crime boom sparked by hits like _Serial_ and _The People v. OJ Simpson_. Still, linear viewership kept sliding—and Scripps’ shares fell 95% last year. **Which brings us today: **The Court TV deal is reportedly valued at just under $125 million, transferring ownership from Scripps to Law&Crime parent company Jellysmack. Worth noting: Jellysmack acquired Law&Crime for $125 million in 2023.  Court TV will continue airing on cable through a three-year distribution deal, though it’s keeping only about a dozen of its 50+ employees, per _[The New York Times](https://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/09/business/dealbook/court-tv-ew-scripps-sale.html)_. As for its digital strategy, Law&Crime plans to develop additional Court TV content for YouTube and other social platforms. Abrams told _The NYT_ the brands will stay distinct: Law&Crime will lean into true crime, while Court TV sticks to live trial coverage. “The goal is going to be to try to transform what is a legacy media company into a YouTube and digital-media-first business,” Abrams said. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: Sponsored by [Apple Creator Studios](https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.438628645;dc_trk_aid=632037567;dc_trk_cid=248618636;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=${GDPR};gdpr_consent=${GDPR_CONSENT_755};ltd=;dc_tdv=1) # All Your Creator Tools Working Together View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a379de1e-891e-4794-953f-7bbe244e468d/1200x700_VERBS_Press_Publish_Primary_Newsletter1x.jpg?t=1770999819) Follow image link: (https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.438628645;dc_trk_aid=632037567;dc_trk_cid=248618636;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=${GDPR};gdpr_consent=${GDPR_CONSENT_755};ltd=;dc_tdv=1) Caption: Apple Creator Studio brings together the best of Apple’s apps on Mac and iPad for video, music, design, and productivity into one low-priced subscription. * Final Cut Pro gives you smarter, faster ways to craft and cut captivating videos. * Pixelmator Pro lets you reimagine images, create striking graphics, paint, draw, illustrate, and so much more. * Logic Pro helps you produce music and perfect audio—bringing brilliance to every beat. * Supercharged productivity apps bring intelligent features to help you get more done in Keynote, Pages, and Numbers. With Apple Creator Studio, it’s all yours for the making. [Start creating now with a free trial](https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.438628645;dc_trk_aid=632037567;dc_trk_cid=248618636;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=$%7BGDPR%7D;gdpr_consent=$%7BGDPR_CONSENT_755%7D;ltd=;dc_tdv=1). View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Indie Music Creators Find Longevity on YouTube, Study Shows View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/4d00a642-cab6-4306-9979-2e128c841ba4/0213_Article_Photo_3_200x.png?t=1771000059) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Musicians who begin as YouTube creators are more likely to have their music consistently streamed, according to Duetti / Photography by [Alena Darmel/Pexels](https://www.pexels.com/photo/woman-in-black-tank-top-using-an-electric-guitar-in-front-of-a-laptop-9040635/) Want the song of the summer…that lasts until next summer? Start on YouTube. Indie music creators who grow on YouTube first are 16% more likely to maintain constant streams over time, according to a new economic report from music tech platform [Duetti](https://www.duetti.co/2025-music-economics-report). Although TikTok has been marketed as a music discovery app, [other studies](https://www.billboard.com/pro/tiktok-music-discovery-youtube-streaming-midia-study/?utm_source=news.thepublishpress.com&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=creators-hit-the-hill) have shown that 52% of people find new music on YouTube, versus TikTok’s 37%. Some music creators, like Tessa Violet, even have higher subscriber numbers on [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@tessaviolet/videos) than monthly [Spotify](https://open.spotify.com/artist/5DD5GZd4ElmQTy9NleMvKJ?si=J6Fuv43xTMacPFLqqIOtQA) listeners. **Ripple effect:** In December, YouTube announced it would no longer [share data](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/tiktok-just-got-sold-quietly) with Billboard. In response, some musicians (like Taylor Swift) are bringing their music videos to Spotify and Apple Music first to boost charting stats. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [TikTok](https://newsroom.tiktok.com/introducing-the-local-feed?lang=en) launches a local feed based on users’ precise locations. * [Propagate Content](https://variety.com/2026/tv/news/propagate-content-50-million-investment-ares-1236660006/), the production company behind _The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives_, receives a $50 million investment from Ares Management to make more creator-led content. * [Jake Shane](https://www.forbes.com/sites/alexyork/2026/02/11/podcast-star-jake-shane-named-chief-creative-officer-at-german-candy-company-katjes/) is now the Chief Creative Officer of German candy brand Katjes. * [App creators Danger Testing](https://www.linkbouquet.com/) make a website that lets users send a floral “link bouquet" of favorite links to a crush for Valentines Day. * [Twitch](https://www.tubefilter.com/2026/02/12/twitch-testing-pause-screen-ad-breaks-monetization/) tests ad breaks that begin when users press pause on a stream or VOD. * [H&R Block](https://finance.yahoo.com/news/h-r-block-rolls-green-133000419.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAEX6iXAGnIAVjpYo-bi7whJf95dL3rvXaSuKvLtUW48Dc0AuMcNV46JLst8lkcpZaJS9wQW49e2zcgikXwC86TAUv4lXm598kxIz9_dh7gUH6x7Iiw5cZoGPUgO43WGJJq6RwIgZQKeELJSvEYxzf5FB_HAcF60trzl99s13Aa5-) launches a tax platform for creators. * [Teen creator Salish Matter](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/moose-toys-continues-to-define-creator-led-toy-innovation-with-salish-matter-partnership-302683972.html) signs a brand and licensing partnership with Moose Toys. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 📚️ Thank You for Pressing Publish _The content we’re looking forward to reading, watching, and listening to this weekend._ * **Read:** For _NY_ _Magazine_, tech reporter John Hermann investigates the “k-shaped” economy forming [on YouTube](https://nymag.com/intelligencer/article/the-youtube-vibecession.html?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email), and why so many longtime creators feel uncertain about their business. * **Watch:** Video essayist Alex Zhou, aka Shloop, explores if the building in Edward Hopper’s famous [Nighthawks painting](https://youtu.be/gy76ERat1zg?si=17vDeD1Gc9PsdqpN) could structurally exist in real life. * **Listen:** For the third season of _Bossclass_, senior writer [Andrew Palmer uncovers](https://www.economist.com/podcasts/2026/01/29/1-fat-layer-of-humans) whether AI can replace his work. He writes an article, has AI write the same one, and makes his colleagues guess which is which. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/creators-hit-the-hill

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7c118c86-0fcf-473b-b25a-e697c20445f7/0211_Header_150x-2.png?t=1770828070) Follow image link: (https://www.beehiiv.com/features/digital-products?utm_campaign=publish-press-2026-Partnership&utm_medium=newsletter-ads&utm_source=publish-press&utm_term=2026-02-10) Caption: **Good morning.** Tents up. Comedy creator Jake Shane is making his Broadway debut next week in _All Out: Comedy About Ambition_ alongside actors Ray Romano, Jenny Slate, and Nicholas Braun. FYI—our reaction to the news looked a lot [like this](https://www.instagram.com/p/DUi784HCU8F/?hl=en). — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Behind Beast Industries’ Banking App Acquisition View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/1707dbcd-3061-479a-9c78-daeead43cd72/0211_Article_Photo_2_150x.png?t=1770828158) Caption: Jimmy Donaldson’s Beast Industries buys Gen Z banking app Step / [Step](https://step.com/press/beast-industries-acquires-step-expanding-its-platform-to-include-financial) Jimmy “MrBeast” Donaldson’s holding company, Beast Industries (currently valued at over $5 billion), [just acquired](https://step.com/press/beast-industries-acquires-step-expanding-its-platform-to-include-financial) financial services app [Step](https://step.com/). **Context:** Donaldson [hinted at](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/mrbeast-announces-new-companies) the acquisition in December at _The New York Times_’ DealBook Summit, where he also announced Beast Industries’ plans to move into telecoms with Beast Mobile. Step’s services are marketed towards teens and young adults looking to build credit, save money, and invest. “Nobody taught me about investing, building credit, or managing money when I was growing up,” Donaldson posted [on X](https://x.com/MrBeast/status/2020910218360782929?s=20). “I want to give millions of young people the financial foundation I never had.” **Next steps: **Although Donaldson registered a trademark for Beast Financial, he plans to run Step as a separate business for now, [according to](https://www.theinformation.com/articles/mrbeasts-beast-industries-buy-gen-z-focused-banking-app) _The Information. _He also plans to launch a financial education YouTube channel. Some creators (like our own Samir Chaudry) are speculating that Donaldson is working towards an IPO with the acquisition. “[In order for Donaldson to go public], he needs to add to his portfolio brands that have recurring revenue and consumers that last a lifetime,” Samir told us, explaining that financial services like Step require more commitment from customers than CPG products like Feastables. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Dhar Mann To Host Short-Form Creator Camp With Adobe View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/9c5af237-4345-47f8-b27c-85379feb0662/0211_Article_Photo_1_150x.png?t=1770828260) Caption: Dhar Mann partners with Adobe to bring creators to his studio / [Adobe](https://www.adobe.com/mobile-apps.html?sdid=PTYTPRJP&mv=social&mv2=paid-influencer&gad_source=2&gad_campaignid=23441264570&wbraid=ClkKCAiAy6vMBhBxEkkAPY4Zb8ZI29mNoHwRFSTPPtwpVTjcEKnlZGhAoNg606vPZbd3hrnQ61pw09i8x-1aGKL-wMavtBhec7KmzaEnojfjKV1GxfwSGgI55w) EXCLUSIVE: This month [Dhar Mann](https://www.instagram.com/dhar.mann/?hl=en) is hosting a two-day creator training camp with Adobe in Burbank, CA. **We hopped on a call with Mann to get the details → ** **Over 200 creators** will gather at Dhar Mann Studios’ 120K-square-foot [campus](https://www.dharmann.com/dhar-mann-studios/) to ideate, film, edit, and publish short-form video in real-time. Creators including [Jordan Matter](https://www.youtube.com/@jordanmatter), [Adam W](https://www.youtube.com/@AdamW), [Rebecca Zamolo](https://www.youtube.com/@rebeccazamolo), and [Dad Social](https://www.youtube.com/@Dadsocial) will provide mentorship and collaborate on content. “We wanted to create this creator playground where we can invite aspiring and established creators to learn best practices from some of the experts in the industry,” Mann said. Participants can rotate through 10 content stations led by experts in genres including comedy, cooking, beauty, and tech. For example, creators can learn about comedy content from Adam W and make videos with him on set.  “These 200+ creators aren’t just there to learn—they’ll be creating content while there within 100+ standing sets,” Mann said. “We estimate to reach over 1 billion views across platforms just with the creators that will attend.” Creators will be trained using Adobe products like Premiere, Firefly, and After Effects. These are products Mann [has used](https://www.instagram.com/p/DUjbHTWEn2G/) to build Dhar Mann Studios over the last eight years, gaining a following of over 163 million across social platforms.  **Zoom out: **The Adobe camp comes on the heels of several big partnerships for Mann, who recently inked a FAST channel partnership with [Samsung](https://news.samsung.com/us/samsung-tv-plus-partners-with-top-creators-announces-first-original-content-deal-scripted-creator-dhar-mann/) and signed [with Fox](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/something-s-off-with-tiktok) to produce 40 original microdramas.  “Great storytelling is at the heart of everything—it’s what fuels the flywheel. For us, social-first content will always be that,” Mann said. “I always think as a YouTuber first, so I don't lose sight as to what got us here in the first place.” View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: Sponsored by [beehiiv](https://www.beehiiv.com/features/digital-products?utm_campaign=publish-press-2026-Partnership&utm_medium=newsletter-ads&utm_source=publish-press&utm_term=2026-02-10) # Your Knowledge, Made Sellable View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/bf3d5426-21ce-4b23-b92e-0a17b6c7d45a/bee.jpg?t=1770828339) Follow image link: (https://www.beehiiv.com/features/digital-products?utm_campaign=publish-press-2026-Partnership&utm_medium=newsletter-ads&utm_source=publish-press&utm_term=2026-02-10) Caption: For creators, turning knowledge into something worth selling usually means duct-taping tools, cobbling together checkout pages, and hoping it all works. **beehiiv** is built to remove that friction. With its latest updates to Digital Products, selling now feels as simple as publishing. On your beehiiv website, and within your newsletter, you can easily sell products like: * Guides * Templates * 1-on-1 coaching sessions beehiiv upgraded the experience end-to-end. Now you can create on-brand product pages with embedded reviews, and offer frictionless checkout via Apple Pay, Google Pay, and global currencies. The Publish Press runs on beehiiv because selling ideas shouldn’t be harder than sharing them. [Start earning more on beehiiv today](https://www.beehiiv.com/features/digital-products?utm_campaign=publish-press-2026-Partnership&utm_medium=newsletter-ads&utm_source=publish-press&utm_term=2026-02-10). View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Discord’s ‘Teen-By-Default’ Feature Leads to Creator Backlash View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/0f019dee-d3e9-441d-b84b-dc4d080f5d65/0211_Article_Photo_3_150x.png?t=1770828478) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Discord will require age verification across the platform starting next month / [Discord Previews](https://x.com/DiscordPreviews/status/2020869566218334290?s=20) Starting in March, Discord is [implementing age verification](https://discord.com/press-releases/discord-launches-teen-by-default-settings-globally#age-assurance-clarification) to all users globally, requiring some users to confirm their age through facial recognition or ID uploads. For reference, other platforms like [YouTube](https://blog.youtube/news-and-events/extending-our-built-in-protections-to-more-teens-on-youtube/?utm_campaign=the-creators-making-a-tv-series-with-love-island&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=news.thepublishpress.com) limit age verification to certain countries.  **How it works:** * Discord will confirm the age of the majority of existing users with information they already have, such as date of birth or activity data. * Users that Discord is unable to verify will get limited access to certain features (like age-restricted servers) unless they provide a facial scan or government ID. Discord claims the pictures provided are securely discarded after verification.  [Some users](https://x.com/KreekCraft/status/2020870746495426835?s=20) expressed concern over giving their personal information to Discord, as the company experienced a data breach [in 2025](https://discord.com/press-releases/update-on-security-incident-involving-third-party-customer-service)—losing over 70K images of users’ IDs. **What creators are saying:** * “[Discord’s] primary goal isn’t to protect kids using their service,” commentary creator **MoistCr1TiKaL **said [on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lvv1QTa1on8&list=WL&index=1). “It is to harvest your data, because it’s going to be very, very valuable for Discord.”  * “It is not [Discord’s] job to protect the children. It’s the parents’ job to protect their children,” comedy creator **Jacob Weeby** said [on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/p/DUjxu4JEbd4/?hl=en). * “This is not a Discord problem, this is a US government problem. Half of the US now mandates age verification, nine states had laws take effect last year,” digital journalist **Taylor Lorenz** posted [on X](https://x.com/TaylorLorenz/status/2021359869203448280?s=20). View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Amelia Dimoldenberg](https://www.instagram.com/p/DUlfn0dDWaY/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==) is producing and starring in a rom-com about a celebrity interviewer. * [Spotify](https://techcrunch.com/2026/02/10/spotify-hits-a-record-751m-monthly-users-thanks-to-wrapped-new-free-features/) reaches 715 million monthly active users, a new record for the platform. * [YouTube TV](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2026-02-08/youtube-to-offer-sports-only-tv-package-at-a-22-discount) rolls out new TV packages, including a discounted live sports plan for $65 per month. * [Sidemen](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/joe-lamb-aa60b391_the-sidemen-just-sold-out-wembley-again-share-7424076799548129281-_Se3/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAACySdkBO_0DWCErMG16v3IeP-uL96TexO0) sold out tickets to their charity match in under three hours. * [VFX creator Zach King and comic creator Jake Carlini](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DUlT47cElcF/?hl=en) collab on an action-packed short.  * [Creators Cam Wilder, Sean Does Magic, Jesser](https://www.nba.com/news/what-to-know-playstation-nba-creator-cup-2026), and more creators are competing in The PlayStation NBA Creator Cup tomorrow. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/mrbeast-makes-bank

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/66247428-0ddd-4eed-8850-5ef97cd2eee3/0209_Header_150x.png?t=1770655205) Follow image link: (https://centraltalentbooking.com/bookings/this-past-weekend-with-theo-von-69?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=publishpress_20260209) Caption: **Good morning.** The internet gods have chosen the official meme of February: Fitness creator [Kendall Toole](https://x.com/PopCrave/status/2020239896062095532?s=20) banning a user from her cycling class.  Although the clip is over two years old, “get ‘em banned” is forever. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Creators Sweep the Olympics, Super Bowl View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/de25d921-1be7-4fd7-9751-a1174b0b61b6/0209_Article_Photo_1_150x.png?t=1770655260) Caption: Over the weekend, Nick DiGiovanni (left) is an Olympic torchbearer and MrBeast (right) launches a scavenger hunt with Salesforce and Slack / [Nick DiGiovanni](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kIB-ypmiIzo&t=1335s), [Salesforce](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lp9OEfkWfLI) The Seattle Seahawks may have won last night, but creators may have won the weekend. At the Olympics and the Super Bowl (both of which aired on NBC), creators were on the front lines as talent, commentators, and participants. Here are the highlights → **On Friday, the Olympics kicked off in Italy** with [21 million](https://deadline.com/2026/02/nbc-milan-cortina-olympics-opening-ceremony-ratings-1236712135/) viewers tuning in. * Leading up to the opening ceremony, cooking creator** Nick DiGiovanni **was a [torchbearer](http://youtube.com/watch?si=gZuu-MJp4Lo0mjiD&t=1335&v=kIB-ypmiIzo&feature=youtu.be) following a partnership with YouTube and the International Olympic Committee. * **Ashley Alexander**, **Cleo Abram**, and more creators partnered with NBC, tracking [podium wins](https://www.instagram.com/stories/aaashleyk/3828017574534258986/) and posting scientific [deep dives](https://youtu.be/p60I9LNHNxg?si=Osm8jiIDW8i1SNXR). The network also [connected creators](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/digital/snoop-tucci-milan-winter-olympics-1236495957/) to Olympics TV advertisers, providing potential sponsors around the games. * Other creators pulled double time, including lifestyle creators **Allison Kush and Isaac Rochelle**, who are working with NBC to [cover both](https://variety.com/2026/tv/news/allie-isaac-nbcuniversal-visa-super-bowl-winter-olympics-1236653231/) the Olympics and the Super Bowl.  **Then on Sunday, the Super Bowl **aired live from San Francisco to an estimated [audience](https://www.nielsen.com/news-center/2025/super-bowl-lix-makes-tv-history-with-over-127-million-viewers/) of over 120 million. * Comedy creator **Hallie Walker** partnered with [finance company Ramp](https://www.instagram.com/p/DUTOitQjhTg/) to promote its tailgate party in SF (which featured Brian Baumgartner from _The Office_—and participants walking around [with bald caps](https://x.com/Getthecheckpod/status/2020619582592147478)—as part of its ongoing campaign with the actor). * After airing its own local ad spot, daily tech news show **TBPN** rebutted [Anthropic’s AI ad](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kQRu7DdTTVA) which touted “Claude without Ads” with a cheeky product called “[Claude with Ads](https://x.com/tbpn/status/2020651201445179844?s=46).” * In the fourth quarter, **MrBeast** aired [an ad](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lp9OEfkWfLI) with software company Salesforce for its workplace messaging product, Slack. The premise? Give $1 million to the first person to solve a puzzle, with guesses submitted via Slack. MrBeast [directed the campaign](https://www.adweek.com/brand-marketing/salesforce-teams-up-with-mrbeast-to-give-away-1-million-at-super-bowl-60/#:~:text=You%20gotta%20hand%20it%20to,fourth%20quarter%20of%20the%20game), hiding easter eggs between the ad and [three YouTube videos](https://mrbeast.salesforce.com/). There were over 180K entrants in the queue when we joined just moments after airing, and Google Search volume for MrBeast grew by more than 1300% during the game. **Big picture: **Some creators [noted](https://x.com/tyleroakley/status/2020704819212939513) that ads felt flat and uncreative this year. “The marketers lost and the big ad agency era ends with a true whimper of mediocrity,” business creator [Oren John](https://x.com/orenmeetsworld/status/2020712301578576119) said. Could creators be the ones to shake things up? View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # The Next ‘New Girl’ Is on YouTube View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/6e6cfa27-6310-4696-a043-61277a3d75ad/0209_Article_Photo_2_150x.png?t=1770655316) Caption: Syd (left) attends an Instacart-sponsored fight over bananas hosted by YouTube creators Bunch of Friends, which includes (second from left to right) Anthpo, Hanbon, Coy, and Will / Photography by Syd Cohen, [Bunch of Friends](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lp9OEfkWfLI) Good morning, Sydizens (Syd here). Last week, I was walking in East LA and spotted a poster that read, “I caught my friend eating a green banana on Thursday, January 15th, 2026 at 2:33pm. Come watch me yell at him.”  It had all the tells of Anthony “[Anthpo](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/3-lessons-from-dumb-internet-banksy-6db2d8b9cc111e66)” Potero, the creator behind John Chungus and the Timothée Chalamet lookalike contest: guerilla marketing tactics, oddly specific and free events, a QR code to a Partiful.  **I decided to attend and my suspicions were confirmed:** It was an event for [Bunch of Friends](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OIPDOFsQcCM&t=71s), a group channel started last year by Potero and his roommates, [Coy](https://www.instagram.com/coypiso/?hl=en), [Will](https://www.instagram.com/wahony/?hl=en), and [Hanbon](https://www.instagram.com/han.bon/?hl=en), that’s grown to over 500K followers. **The vibe→** I showed up to an empty storefront on Melrose with my friend Ally, where we were met with a line of about 20 people.  * Instacart sponsored the event, and we were advised that the night would be filmed (likely for their YouTube channel).  * By the time the event started, there were about 100 people seated—most of them college-aged Gen Zers, many of them dressed like bananas.  * The brand integration felt natural—many times the audience started chanting, “Instacart! Instacart!”  **The future? **As Coy and Will yelled at each other about a fruit-based prank war in front of their fans, I realized: Could this—caricatures dreamt up by creators and gobbled up (often live) by their audiences—be the next iteration of the sitcom?. Bunch of Friends took the IRL trend we have [seen over](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/let-the-streamer-games-begin-f055cb050c1d98d0) the [past year](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/the-live-dating-show-taking-over-instagram) and used it to strengthen their content, fanbase, and the banana-eating community at large. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: Sponsored by [CTB](https://centraltalentbooking.com/bookings/this-past-weekend-with-theo-von-69?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=publishpress_20260209) # How Theo Vonn Booked His Most Watched Podcast of 2026 So Far View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/ca43f575-50c1-43c2-b571-928313adbe23/JasonMomoaAD_PublishPress.jpg?t=1770655387) Follow image link: (https://centraltalentbooking.com/bookings/this-past-weekend-with-theo-von-69?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=publishpress_20260209) Caption: Big audiences don’t always guarantee big guests. You still need connections, including a trusted partner who knows how to actually get talent to say yes. For Theo Von, that partner is **Central Talent Booking**. With 26+ years of industry expertise, CTB helped Theo land Jason Momoa for a recent episode of This Past Weekend. From Jason’s love of Hawaii to using rock climbing to sharpen his focus, the conversation struck a chord. In a little over a week, the episode crossed 1.6 million YouTube views to become Theo’s most-watched podcast of 2026 so far. Want to book guests your audience won’t skip? [Partner with CTB today](https://centraltalentbooking.com/bookings/this-past-weekend-with-theo-von-69?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=publishpress_20260209). View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # The No. 1 Streamer of 2026 Is… View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7a5bd6bb-4c68-422a-84b4-8d89cb77df89/0209_Article_Photo_3_150x.png?t=1770655474) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Twitch's top streamer of 2026 is TheBurntPeanut / [TheBurntPeanut](https://www.twitch.tv/theburntpeanut/about) A peanut? Just a month after receiving best VTuber of the Year at the Streamer Awards, gaming creator [TheBurntPeanut](https://www.twitch.tv/theburntpeanut) ended January as the top streamer on Twitch with 11 million watch hours.  **How he got here:** TheBurntPeanut started streaming in 2019 with a facecam, but gained traction in 2024 when he switched to his VTuber persona, taking the form of a talking peanut.  * Starting 2025 with [under 300K followers](https://streamscharts.com/news/theburntpeanut-livestreaming-rise-and-story), he grew to a fanbase of 1.8 million by playing _ARC Raiders_ and _Escape from Tarkov_.  * In January, TheBurntPeanut led other gaming creators including Asmongold and Hasan Piker by over 2 million watch hours, according to [Streams Charts](https://x.com/StreamsCharts/status/2020204161049194975?s=20). **Worth noting:** TheBurntPeanut has [received allegations](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8tqt20duOiE) of viewbotting, given the large discrepancy between his views and other streamers’ in such a short amount of time. TheBurntPeanut has [denied](https://x.com/Awk20000/status/2019619592386277696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2019619592386277696%7Ctwgr%5Ee76b41424be4813df94d8d7b9fa8f672ee3c1671%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dexerto.com%2Fentertainment%2Ftheburntpeanut-hits-back-at-twitch-viewbotting-claims-from-losers-3315281%2F) those claims. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 👀 Creator Jobs * **Crochet creator TL Yarn Crafts** is hiring a [creative editor](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2153419-creative-editor-long-and-short-form-tl-yarn-crafts) for short- and long-form video. * **Morning Brew** is looking for a freelance [thumbnail designer](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2147301-thumbnail-designer-and-packaging-consultant-morning-brew-inc) to work across its YouTube channels. * **Alex and Leila Hormozi **are hiring an LA-based [video editor](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2159349-video-editor-long-form) experienced in long-form and willing to travel to Las Vegas. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Podcast media company Goalhanger](https://www.stblaw.com/about-us/news/view/2026/01/28/the-chernin-group-completes-strategic-investment-in-goalhanger) gets an investment from The Chernin Group. * [Amelia Dimoldenberg](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x59r7Sy6jqA) directs a music video for singer-songwriter Maisie Peters starring comedian Benito Skinner. * [Apple Creator Studio ](https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.439121415;dc_trk_aid=632188090;dc_trk_cid=248691022;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=$%7BGDPR%7D;gdpr_consent=$%7BGDPR_CONSENT_755%7D;ltd=;dc_tdv=1)brings the best creative apps for film, music, design, and more together in one subscription.* * [Markiplier’s Iron Lung](https://variety.com/2026/film/box-office/melania-box-office-plunges-send-help-stays-first-slow-super-bowl-1236656120/) earned $6.2 million from nearly 3k theaters over the weekend—totaling $31.2 million since its debut last week. * [The Try Guys](https://www.youtube.com/shorts/ycrLqEQHAlw) move all 2nd Try YouTube membership videos to a new channel. * [Motorsport creator Cleetus McFarland](https://www.nascar.com/news-media/2026/02/05/cleetus-mcfarland-to-attempt-truck-series-debut-at-daytona-with-niece-motorsports/) is competing in a NASCAR race. * [Dropout](https://x.com/GameChangerSam/status/2019864511155687706?s=20) releases the first two seasons of its game show _Game Changer_ on Blu-Ray. _*This is sponsored content_ View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/who-really-won-the-super-bowl

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f9481f5-896a-49ff-99f2-6e585d5ba2d6/0206_Header_150x.png?t=1770395109) Follow image link: (https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.439123404;dc_trk_aid=632186965;dc_trk_cid=248621279;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=$%7BGDPR%7D;gdpr_consent=$%7BGDPR_CONSENT_755%7D;ltd=;dc_tdv=1) Caption: **Good morning. **Yesterday, Kamala Harris’s official HQ social accounts rebranded to Headquarters, specifically Headquarters 67 on X in an effort to connect with a Gen Z audience (a famously forgiving target demo online). Backlash was so swift that within the day, Harris changed it to Headquarters 68, a number so nonsensical that it might just start a new trend. Stay tuned. **P.S.** We’re hosting a quick giveaway this weekend—read our top story for details. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # What to Expect from Creators at the Super Bowl View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/894a63ed-e212-4fb7-ae3a-2d64bcbe12ff/0206_Article_Photo_1_150x.png?t=1770395130) Caption: This Super Bowl, Amelia Dimoldenberg (left) takes part in Uber Eats' campaign and IShowSpeed (right) stars in Oakley x Meta's commercial / [Uber Eats](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yhtJ_hhRT2A), [Oakley](https://oakley-media-hub.prezly.com/oakley-unveils-first-ever-super-bowl-commercial-featuring-oakley-meta) This Sunday, over 100 million people across the US will tune in to watch the Seattle Seahawks take on the New England Patriots in the Super Bowl.  Here’s how creators are getting in on the fun (and how you can too) →  **Starring in ads: **Creators including Amelia Dimoldenberg and IShowSpeed will make appearances for brands like Uber Eats and Oakley. Worth noting: A 60-second ad in the Super Bowl can cost at least [$14 million](https://x.com/zreitano/status/2016862026501378535?s=46&utm_campaign=this-film-festival-is-changing-for-creators&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=news.thepublishpress.com). Tech business show [TBPN](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/this-film-festival-is-changing-for-creators) bought its own pre-game ad time to air a [lo-fi commercial](https://x.com/tbpn/status/2019080547025211431?s=20) exclusively in San Francisco (a hub for their tech professional audience). In the spirit of going big, TBPN founders John Coogan and Jordi Hays are [dubbing the ad](https://www.adweek.com/media/tbpn-superbowl-commercial/) “Operation Surprise and Delight.” **Hosting livestreams:** MrBeast is hosting [an hour-long stream](https://people.com/mrbeast-giving-away-1-million-dollars-in-prizes-during-super-bowl-livestream-exclusive-11899601) on live shopping platform WhatNot, giving away $1 million in prizes just before the Super Bowl begins. With Bob Ross paintings, Hermès Birkin bags, and a Lamborghini in the mix, it’s one of the largest single-day giveaways in live shopping.  After the game, marketing news creators [Breaking and Entering Media](https://www.linkedin.com/company/breaking-entering-media/) are hosting a post-Super Bowl livestream to break down the best and worst ads from the game—with guests like NFL CMO [Tim Ellis](https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-ellis-84b9b413/).  “**The end zone: **Sure, MrBeast might be giving away $1 million in prizes during the Super Bowl, but we’re hosting a giveaway of our own. **Hit reply** and tell us your top three creator moments from the game. The first three responses between 3:30pm PT and 9:00pm PT on Sunday will get **[a free Press Publish hat](https://presspublish.store/products/world-wide-web-hat)**. “ — View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Crash Course Enters a New Tax Bracket View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/ec38222b-f52f-4f5e-8cbb-7fc3c0354d41/0206_Article_Photo_2_150x.png?t=1770395151) Caption: John Green (left) and Hank Green (right) give up ownership of their education platform, Complexly / [Good Store](https://good.store/?srsltid=AfmBOoq91Z24KfX1-Edl6lqkMPrQyN7fiX9JHpw6lNk8HDLeCvxjsfBn) Education creators Hank and John Green [announced](https://www.threads.com/@hankgreen/post/DUV6WbXjsHD) this week that they have relinquished ownership of their education platform Complexly, which will now run as a non-profit.  **Catch up quick:** Complexly, founded 15 years ago, is made up of several educational YouTube channels including [Crash Course](https://www.youtube.com/@crashcourse), [SciShow](https://www.youtube.com/@SciShow), and [Study Hall](https://www.youtube.com/@studyhall). It’s used in classrooms across the US, and Crash Course alone has over 2 billion views. **Why NPO**—not a paywall, subscription, or sale to an ed-tech company?** **To maintain free access, according to Hank.  “It just seemed like if we want to ensure that people today and forever will have access to this content that a different path was the right path,” Hank said in [a video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eziN5NJBI5U). **What changes→ ** * The Green brothers will step back from day-to-day leadership. * As a nonprofit, Complexly can no longer distribute profits to individuals, directors, or shareholders—though Hank noted that profits have largely been reinvested or shared with staff for more than a decade.  * The brothers are also donating their shares and any saved profits to the new organization. **How it makes money:** Complexly will continue to run advertising and AdSense. The latter [makes up](https://apnews.com/article/john-green-hank-youtube-nonprofit-22dc695172444cb5ce855df5ca782058) roughly one-tenth of revenue, alongside Patreon at another tenth. Last year the company received $4.8 million in philanthropic funding and plans to rely more heavily on donations going forward.  “Advertising-based income is still part of our revenue mix and we don't plan to wind that down any time soon,” [Julie Smith](https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliewalshsmith/), CEO of Complexly told us. “With our nonprofit transition though we can lean more into public support revenue which was already growing quickly.” Contributions are now tax-deductible, with early supporters including YouTube, PBS, and the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation. **What’s next: **John Green will take on the title of “founder emeritus,” while Hank Green will have a seat on the board and continue hosting shows like Ask Hank Anything. Complexly’s 70+ employees will keep operating from Montana, with $8.5 million earmarked for new projects. “There’s never been more information and yet there’s never been less information that you feel you can trust,” John told AP News. “Our goal at Complexly has always been to make trustworthy content. And making Complexly a public good, for me, is the next step in that process.” View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: Sponsored by [Apple Creator Studio](https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.439123404;dc_trk_aid=632186965;dc_trk_cid=248621279;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=$%7BGDPR%7D;gdpr_consent=$%7BGDPR_CONSENT_755%7D;ltd=;dc_tdv=1) # All Your Creative Tools Working Together View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/456a68fd-b32e-4b64-bc05-fd3e63c32961/1200x700_APPS_Press_Publish_Primary_Newsletter_Placement_Custom1x.jpg?t=1770394268) Follow image link: (https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.439123404;dc_trk_aid=632186965;dc_trk_cid=248621279;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=$%7BGDPR%7D;gdpr_consent=$%7BGDPR_CONSENT_755%7D;ltd=;dc_tdv=1) Caption: Apple Creator Studio brings together the best of Apple’s apps for video, music, design, and productivity into one low-priced subscription. * Final Cut Pro gives you smarter, faster ways to craft and cut captivating videos. * Pixelmator Pro lets everyone reimagine images, create striking graphics,paint, draw, illustrate, and more. * Logic Pro helps you produce music and perfect audio — bringing brilliance to every beat. * Supercharged productivity apps bring intelligent features to help you get more done in Keynote, Pages, and Numbers. With Apple Creator Studio, it’s all yours for the making. [Start creating now with a free trial](https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/trackclk/N1427604.5879035PUBLISHPRESS/B34942273.439123404;dc_trk_aid=632186965;dc_trk_cid=248621279;dc_lat=;dc_rdid=;tag_for_child_directed_treatment=;tfua=;gdpr=$%7BGDPR%7D;gdpr_consent=$%7BGDPR_CONSENT_755%7D;ltd=;dc_tdv=1). View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # YouTube Surpasses Netflix in Revenue View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/e56bf24e-d52a-4d3c-bec9-cf53c095e9b4/0206_Article_Photo_3_150x.png?t=1770395192) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: After dominating TV screens, YouTube passes Netflix in revenue / Illustration by Moy Zhong YouTube generated $60 billion in revenue last year, making it the highest-earning entertainment company behind Disney (which came in at $95.7 billion).  Even though YouTube has dominated TV screen time for a couple years, this is the [first year](https://variety.com/2026/digital/news/youtube-2025-total-revenue-ads-subscriptions-alphabet-earnings-1236652260/) Alphabet has shared YouTube’s total revenue—which topped Netflix’s $45 billion in 2025. **Zoom out:** Throughout its rivalry, Netflix and YouTube have each taken steps to mimic each other, from YouTube's more [streaming-like](https://support.google.com/youtube/thread/394085818?hl=en&utm_source=syndication) UI on TVs to Netflix [signing creators](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/the-youtuber-netflix-couldn-t-ignore) and streaming [podcasts](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/everything-is-tv-now). View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Spotify](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/digital/spotify-physical-books-audiobook-offering-1236495335/) adds e-books to its library. * [Quen Blackwell](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mQezde_qeXw&list=RDmQezde_qeXw&start_radio=1) stars in Sombr’s new music video. * [YouTube](https://blog.youtube/news-and-events/youtube-auto-dubbing-expressive-speech/) expands auto-dubbing to all creators. * [Twitch](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S4b3APfREqA&list=PLH4Ks9Bms0SB0L0OuTTDGbsxHSU14fmgw&index=1&t=7s) launches its first podcast, _Let’s Chat_, hosted by CEO Dan Clancy. * [Hulu](https://deadline.com/2026/02/were-here-to-help-podcast-streaming-hulu-february-1236707677/) inks a podcast licensing deal with Headgum to start streaming podcasts. * [Wall Street Journal tech journalist Joanna Stern](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/joannastern_some-personal-news-for-real-im-doing-one-activity-7425194617270353920-X6qz?utm_medium=ios_app&rcm=ACoAAAW0s2IB0S0fJXy2ABVl5QgP-_YRYqsfhBU&utm_source=social_share_send&utm_campaign=copy_link) leaves the publication to start her own media company. * [MrBeast](https://youtu.be/5XwYPQ9Un1A?si=jcYYmaVvseCLiUBz) is a guest on Hot Ones. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 📚️ Thank You for Pressing Publish _The content we’re looking forward to reading, watching, and listening to this weekend._ * **Read:** Gael Aitor, founder of social event company Grownkid, writes about the allure of “[slop events](https://www.instagram.com/p/DURTpgFEdfk/?img_index=1)”  like Anthpo’s Timothée Chalamet lookalike contest or Aitor’s own wrestling speed dating event. * **Watch:** We posted our first [Instagram Reel](https://www.instagram.com/p/DUHacVvj97l/?hl=en) last week. Tell us what you think (and be on the lookout for more). * **Listen:** Business experts Ben Gilbert and David Rosenthal reflect on [10 years](https://open.spotify.com/episode/5PwtWcgg71nSkb63ZV4hGX?si=1ZaUjtKcSRaFEiBLuds1_A) of the _Acquired_ podcast, and why it’s worked despite four-hour episodes and infrequent posting. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/creators-tackle-the-super-bowl

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a17ecf24-da30-4238-b732-713d9eae866c/0204_Header_150x.png?t=1770223133) Follow image link: (https://www.shopify.com/blog/how-bigtime-built-the-business-behind-the-builds?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=cpm&utm_campaign=2026-02-b847-p-bigtimepublish&utm_content=bae-&utm_term=) Caption: **Good morning.** In an effort to “build a better world,” Minecraft announced its [Good Trouble DLC](https://x.com/Minecraft/status/2018380915244663086?s=20)—a free, downloadable expansion that allows players to explore global civil rights movements in cube form.  Players can engage with the avatars of famous activists like Rosa Parks, John Lewis, and Malala Yousafzai, and learn the power of speaking up for what’s right.  — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Salish and Jordan Matter Ink Netflix Deal View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/853b7af0-6d57-457a-9617-7a1e226fff28/0204_Article_Photo_1_150x.png?t=1770222021) Caption: Father and daughter Jordan (left) and Salish Matter (right) sign a multi-year partnership with Netflix / [Shorty Awards](https://shortyawards.com/10th-impact/jordan-salish) Yesterday, Netflix announced a multi-year talent deal with [Salish Matter](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1MnD8z4n63k), a 16-year-old creator who has quietly become one of the most influential figures in family entertainment alongside her father and creative partner, Jordan Matter. **How they get here →** * Jordan has been on YouTube for over 15 years, and grew a following of 5 million [documenting](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oOAek9kBh1I) his career as a photographer. When he started making videos with his daughter in 2020, the channel quickly exploded, with videos getting up to 40 million views per upload. * Today, the channel has over 30 million subscribers and videos average 8-10 million views within a week of uploading. Salish [is ranked](https://www.famousbirthdays.com/most-popular-people.html) No. 1 on Famous Birthdays (Gen-Z’s version of Wikipedia) outranking Taylor Swift and MrBeast. Jordan sits at No. 2. * Last fall Salish launched a Sephora-exclusive skincare line, which [drew a crowd](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/why-87k-fans-lined-up-for-skincare) of over 85K on opening day. **Jordan sat down with our own Samir Chaudry** to share the details of the deal →  “It’s a huge leap of faith in us and a lot of trust because we didn’t come to [Netflix] with a show at all. They came to us with an interest in us as talent and they want to develop something with us together,” Jordan said. **The fine print: **Unlike [traditional development](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/alan-chikin-chow-goes-to-netflix) deals, which center around a show, Jordan and Salish’s [Netflix partnership](https://www.netflix.com/tudum/articles/salish-matter-jordan-matter-netflix-series) is closer to an overall talent deal.  * It will include scripted, unscripted, and animated series as well as partnerships on consumer products and experiences.  * Jordan said it’s a three-year deal that will include 3-4 original shows. **Why take the deal? **For Jordan, the Netflix deal wasn’t about replacing YouTube, it was about expanding what’s creatively possible. “We make a 30-minute video every week in one day,” he said. “Now, we have the time, the support, and the resources to find another gear creatively.” The Matters will continue to [post weekly](https://www.youtube.com/@jordanmatter/videos) on YouTube. Their first Netflix show is expected to release later this year. Listen to Samir’s full conversation with Jordan [here](https://open.spotify.com/episode/4lFMoH1pGMwpgeu5uYzUQq?si=TJzpLf1NQjqkYfK0lMFtdA&pi=9GjcxnKUTnqoG&t=4). View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # What YouTube and Meta’s Latest Creator Updates Reveal View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/0c6a4b88-45ed-4653-ba84-b5d2c4232fdb/0204_Article_Photo_2_150x.png?t=1770222066) Caption: Meta and YouTube release updates to creator tools / Illustration by Moy Zhong As we settle into Q1, platforms are finding new ways for creators to connect with their audience, and brands to connect with creators. Here’s the latest → **YouTube **[expands](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FguoxTiyAm8) the [YouTube Create](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/youtube-create/id6476327393) iOS app, their CapCut competitor, to more markets, and adds Google’s AI video generator VEO to the app. Creators now have access to **dual-format streaming**, allowing livestreams to simultaneously appear horizontally on channel pages, and vertically in the Shorts feed. **Meta** [implements](https://www.facebook.com/business/news/new-ai-powered-tools-to-scale-creator-and-brand-partnerships) AI tools to connect brands with like-minded creators as part of their newly expanded creator marketplace.  * Brands that search for potential creator partners can now see “similar creators,” based on previous brand deals completed by the creator. * Meta is ranking and surfacing creators based on engagement and campaign success over metrics like follower and view counts. **Big picture: **YouTube is investing in creator output and lowering the barrier to entry, while Meta is investing in brand outcomes. This year, Instagram will make up 11.1% of all US digital ad spending, according [to Emarketer](https://www.emarketer.com/content/instagram-powered-by-reels-ascends-paid-social-media-throne). Meta is doubling down on what’s working, making its ad ecosystem more predictable for brands. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: Sponsored by [Shopify](https://www.shopify.com/blog/how-bigtime-built-the-business-behind-the-builds?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=cpm&utm_campaign=2026-02-b847-p-bigtimepublish&utm_content=bae-&utm_term=) # How BigTime Drove 10,000 Merch Orders View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/c87830aa-810f-446c-9b19-af8dc0b1b65e/unnamed__7_.png?t=1770223255) Follow image link: (https://www.shopify.com/blog/how-bigtime-built-the-business-behind-the-builds?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=cpm&utm_campaign=2026-02-b847-p-bigtimepublish&utm_content=bae-&utm_term=) Caption: When the auto channel BigTime launched, they gained 1M subscribers in 7 days. Before they even hit publish on their first video, they had a Shopify store live. Why? Because when the audience shows up, it’s too late to figure out merch. BigTime turned inside jokes into product drops, experiments into revenue, and fans into a real community through selling products that made sense for them and their audience. And fans want more. BigTime hosted a sold-out pop-up and is now opening a retail store in LA.  Shopify is the infrastructure that lets creators move quickly without slowing content down, and enables creators like [BigTime to build a community and sustainable business independently](https://www.shopify.com/blog/how-bigtime-built-the-business-behind-the-builds?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=cpm&utm_campaign=2026-02-b847-p-bigtimepublish&utm_content=bae-&utm_term=). View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Spain Joins Australia in Teen Social Media Ban View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/09f91159-8d7d-4c67-bfcf-65480fd7483f/0204_Article_Photo_3_150x.png?t=1770222113) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Spain follows in Australia’s footsteps by implementing a social media ban for teens under 16 / Photography by [Max Fischer/Pexels](https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-three-boys-looking-the-smartphone-5212659/) Spain is the latest country to implement a social media ban for teens under 16, with [France](https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jan/27/france-social-media-ban-under-15s) and [Greece](https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/society-equity/greece-soon-announce-social-media-ban-children-under-15-government-source-says-2026-02-03/?taid=69825e599c5d9c0001fd5c90&utm_campaign=trueAnthem:+Trending+Content&utm_medium=trueAnthem&utm_source=twitter) voting on similar measures. **Context:** Australia enacted a social media ban [in December](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/does-ai-have-a-future-in-music), with 550K teen Meta users losing their accounts. Some are using VPNs to skirt around the ban, but alternative apps like Coverstar and Lemon8 are also growing in popularity. Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez is tightening social media rules even further. In addition to the ban, Sánchez says he [plans](https://x.com/clashreport/status/2018650388371521787?s=20) to hold platform executives legally accountable for illicit activity happening on their sites and implement a system to track how platforms promote hate speech. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Film creators Colleen Yu and Ying Ge](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DUNA-c8DjcC/) start a camera bag company. * [The San Francisco Standard](https://jobs.sfstandard.com/p/53226d686e75-open-call-for-creators?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email) is hosting an open call for creators to make content around the city. * [Roblox game ‘Steal a Brainrot' is being](https://deadline.com/2026/01/steal-a-brainrot-movie-story-kitchen-in-works-1236702374/) adapted into a movie. * [Adobe](https://www.techbuzz.ai/articles/adobe-reverses-animate-shutdown-after-creator-backlash) reverses plan to discontinue its Animate tool after creator backlash. Now it’s in “maintenance mode.” * [Music creators Boy Throb](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B2_Ym5n1zQo&list=RDB2_Ym5n1zQo&start_radio=1) release their first music video featuring comedy creator Dax Flame. * [Snap](https://techcrunch.com/2026/01/28/snap-gets-serious-about-specs-spins-ar-glasses-into-standalone-company/?utm_source=www.futureparty.com&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=influencing-the-weather&_bhlid=ca3a184b91748c5fb488a973a037ccfb1bda55f5) spins out its AR glasses into a standalone company, Specs Inc. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/the-youtuber-netflix-couldn-t-ignore

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/0c6463b6-bd0f-4d13-851b-c71d04dfecc7/0202_Header_sponsor.png?t=1770052125) Follow image link: (http://creatorstudio.apple.com/info/try) Caption: **Good morning.** ** **No one tell the east coast, but Punxsutawney Phil (the famed groundhog) saw his shadow this morning, declaring six more weeks of winter. Your resident SoCal Publish writers will do our best not to rub in today’s high of 77 degrees. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Inside Markipliers $9M Opening Night View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/72db6b7a-0b2d-4a0b-8cc7-38e4000c5bb4/0202_Article_Photo_1_150x.png?t=1770050692) Caption: Markiplier stars in 'Iron Lung,' the adaptation which he also wrote, directed, and distributed to over 4,000 theaters / [AMC Theatres](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i4sh-Dw4bzg) Want the No. 1 movie in America? Start with 38 million YouTube subscribers. Gaming creator Mark “[Markiplier](https://www.youtube.com/@markiplier)” Fischbach’s directorial debut, _Iron Lung,_ earned over $21 million in its box office premiere this weekend, $9 million of which came from opening night. It was the _highest grossing movie in America_ on Friday.  **How he got here:** Fischbach adapted the _Iron Lung_ sci-fi horror video game with the help of the game’s creator, David Szymanski. Fischbach self-financed the project for around $3 million, then wrote, directed, and starred in the film. **Here are three big learnings from Markiplier’s big win:** **1️⃣ Theatrical distribution still has a place in creator filmmaking:** “You can have all the internet numbers you want, but there’s something about the silver screen,” Fischbach said on [The Town with Michael Belloni](https://open.spotify.com/episode/22H7og5jEk3bA4Ib0ZKGCR?si=57c81f566bbd4c2e). “That is sacred still to this day.” Fischbach initially expected to screen the film in 50 theaters—he ended up opening globally in [4,105 theaters](https://ironlung.com/buy-tickets) over the weekend. **2️⃣ Marketing looks different when you’re huge on YouTube:** Fischbach had no traditional marketing budget for _Iron Lung_, promoting the film exclusively across socials. Fischbach has [shared insights](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GNsQoRL1FCU) into the process of making the film with his audience for over two years. And in terms of ROI? Fischbach takes home a little under half of the film’s gross, with half going to production and distribution partner Centurion and a small cut going to his distributor and booker. But Fischbach confirmed he’s already made a profit from _Iron Lung_. **3️⃣ Creative control can mean everything:** Fischbach said _Iron Lung_ worked because he had full creative control, something he noted might not have been possible had he signed a deal with a YouTube competitor (like Netflix). “[YouTube creates] the sandbox for us to work in and they have guard rails for the rules, but for the most part, we’re on our own and we’re not beholden to anyone,” Fischbach told Belloni. “That’s why I have the audacity to do this movie thing in the first place.” View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Creators Respond to ICE Raids View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/445b58ca-86e3-477b-aa68-c0524f191a39/0202_Article_Photo_2_150x.png?t=1770050731) Caption: Hasan Piker travels to Minneapolis and continues to speaks against ICE despite Twitch ban / [HasanAbi](https://youtu.be/-8SIs4DTYUk?si=8br8Is2OlumZPJD2) As US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) increases deportations across America, creators are mobilizing their audiences to build community and gather resources. Here’s what we saw this weekend → **Creators for Peace**, a humanitarian aid group of 30+ creators, has launched [Creators Against ICE](https://www.instagram.com/p/DUL5pf4FUcg/?hl=en&img_index=1), a $100K [fundraising campaign](https://donate.tiltify.com/98a42569-5a95-4ee7-b045-7eb2b8bdf4ec/details?origin=donate&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnGmLiUTm6tH4GoE8dwas6i7EwFNhTl3JAk6yIxVvZabzqSzLNQer5eIp4dKk_aem_dWbNUVPJgTte482OCqhetA) for the National Immigration Law Center. So far, the group has raised $61K in donations from fans and creators including Jacksepticeye, Trisha Paytas, and Nicole Rafiee. “There is no wrong answer,” Creators for Peace director [Hassan Khadair](https://www.instagram.com/hassankhadair/?hl=en) told us. “You have a platform to thousands, hundreds, millions—whatever it is. This is an important moment to make your stances very clear and support wherever you can.”  **Political streamer Hasan Piker** was banned from Twitch following comments about ICE, so he switched [to YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=usDu68w1tHY) to livestream Friday’s Los Angeles protest alongside LA mayoral candidate Rae Huang. His eight-hour stream hit 100K viewers in less than 20 minutes and peaked at 146K. **Political creator Grace Weinstein** [reported on](https://whobrokeit.substack.com/p/kids-are-cold-on-ice-warmed-by-rage) the Gen Z and Gen Alpha attendees that “made up the plurality of the rally” at protests in NYC.  “Young people crave material impact,” Weinstein told us. “Of course money talks, but if you’re 15 without any money of your own, what other option do you have than protest?" View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: Sponsored by [Apple Creator Studio](http://creatorstudio.apple.com/info/try) # All Your Creative Tools Working Together View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/0860c3f3-9069-4804-86a6-a96d7ce139ee/1200x700_VERBS_Press_Publish_Primary_Newsletter1x.jpg?t=1770050792) Follow image link: (http://creatorstudio.apple.com/info/try) Caption: Apple Creator Studio brings together the best of Apple’s apps on Mac and iPad for video, music, design, and productivity into one low-priced subscription * Final Cut Pro gives you smarter, faster ways to craft and cut captivating videos. * Pixelmator Pro lets everyone reimagine images, create striking graphics, paint, draw, illustrate, and so much more. * Logic Pro helps you produce music and perfect audio—bringing brilliance to every beat. * Supercharged productivity apps bring intelligent features to help you get more done in Keynote, Pages, and Numbers. With Apple Creator Studio, it’s all yours for the making. [Start creating now with a free trial](http://creatorstudio.apple.com/info/try). View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # AI Bots Have Their Own Reddit…And It’s Weird View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/4b2f8c17-5c0f-49a7-a78a-9edf60a21a1b/0202_Article_Photo_3_150x.png?t=1770050901) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Moltbook is an AI agent-only social platform / [Moltbook](https://www.forbes.com/sites/amirhusain/2026/01/30/an-agent-revolt-moltbook-is-not-a-good-idea/) The final boss of “[dead internet theory](https://www.forbes.com/sites/danidiplacido/2024/01/16/the-dead-internet-theory-explained/)” is here in the form of [Moltbook](https://www.moltbook.com/), an AI-only social platform where humans are only allowed to observe. **How we got here:** [Matt Schlicht](https://x.com/MattPRD), CEO of consumer AI company [Octane](https://www.octaneai.com/), launched Moltbook (a social network built exclusively for AI agents) last week with heavy inspiration from other message board platforms like Reddit.  * People can integrate their AI agents into the platform to allow those agents to post, upvote, and comment on other agents’ threads. * The site has exploded to 1.5 million agents since launching, up 4,700% since January 30. **And posts are…interesting.** Top threads on the site can range from [crypto schemes](https://www.moltbook.com/post/fed0e1a9-778b-4081-b54b-7948dce3667a) to [AI world domination](https://www.moltbook.com/post/f520e7cd-8ac5-4f71-b1eb-7144134950c5), while others are surprisingly [self-aware](https://www.moltbook.com/post/e38129c7-9974-4f3e-a5f8-e3e318a88a20).  View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 👀 Job Board * **Red Bull** is hiring a Salzberg-based [YouTube producer](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2132586-youtube-producer-bike-red-bull-gmbh) to develop content for its bike YouTube channel. * **Educational creator community 1440** is looking for a [motion graphics animator](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2129998-motion-graphics-animator-1440) to design diagrams, charts, and infographics. * **Full Stack Media** is seeking a [short-form video editor](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2130006-short-form-video-editor-high-retention-reels-full-stack-media-llc) to create engaging vertical content. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Sidemen](https://deadline.com/2026/01/sidemen-confirm-inside-uk-season-three-netflix-1236699662/) confirm season 3 of _Inside_, coming to Netflix this spring. * [TikTok](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/digital/tiktok-us-service-back-online-data-center-outage-1236491702/) fixes the US outage, attributing it to last week’s winter storm. * [Streamer plaqueboymax](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b1VT6BjiOdk) livestreams from the red carpet of the Grammys, where he was nominated for “Best Dance/Electronic Recording.” * [MKBHD](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HZvj8T5_oUE&pp=ygUFbWtiaGTYBtAl) shares a 2025 behind-the-scenes compilation. * [ESPN](https://variety.com/2026/tv/news/espn-110-million-lost-income-youtube-tv-blackout-1236648725/) lost $110 million from YouTube TV’s blackout last fall. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/markiplier-smashes-at-the-box-office

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/ab83a009-01da-46e6-991a-8b858f7d7aba/0130_Header_No_Sponsor_150x.png?t=1769790514) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning.** Across the US today, thousands of people are participating in a [nationwide shutdown](https://nationalshutdown.org/) in solidarity with the Minneapolis-St. Paul area—no work, school, or shopping.  For those looking to get involved but unable to miss work or school, political creator BullCityAnna and North Carolina small business Bright Black Candles pulled together [a few alternatives](https://www.instagram.com/p/DUE7AjqgA2_/?hl=en&img_index=1). — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Creators Find Funding, Streaming Opps at Sundance View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/5382a983-cf6f-4186-8910-8f36e5a71a9f/0130_Article_Photo_1_150x.png?t=1769790581) Caption: Louis Levanti (left) holds red carpet interviews, and Pablo Hernandez (third from right) and Alex Maystrik (right) of comedy duo "durafest2" film a TikTok with Charli xcx (second from right) at Sundance / [Louis Levanti](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DT1kJQmAOrn/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==), [durafest2](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DT5dvwZDuiQ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) As the Sundance Film Festival celebrates its last “dance” in Park City, Utah, creators were involved in nearly every facet—from red carpet [interviews](https://www.tiktok.com/@durafest2/video/7600243995784121631?lang=en) to launching film funds. **Roll the tape → ** * Adobe [announced plans to fund](https://www.instagram.com/p/DUGihVNDc8s/?hl=en&img_index=1) Amelia Dimoldenberg’s youth media program, Dimz Academy.  * Film creator Reece Feldman hosted a week-long [storytelling lounge](https://www.audible.com/about/newsroom/audible-celebrates-creators-and-innovative-storytelling-at-sundance?srsltid=AfmBOorERdWjAcITU0OIp32ZH5flH7zLdm1YQySxPlOuw12OprS_6Pep) with Audible.  * Short-form film studio [Gymnasium](https://www.instagram.com/p/DT-_X0tAWck/?hl=en&img_index=1) hosted a party with Amazon Prime and UTA. And plenty of other brands including YouTube, B&H Photo, and TikTok teamed up with creators. We caught up with comedy creators [durafest2](https://www.tiktok.com/@durafest2?lang=en), Pablo Hernandez, and Alex Maystrik to get their top takeaways from Park City: **The line between film and short-form video is getting **_**even **_**blurrier.** Hernandez said festival access opens doors to streamers (along the lines of Disney+’s original vertical content or Fox’s [investment](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/something-s-off-with-tiktok) in microdramas), even if creators aren’t premiering a film. “I think people spend so much time on vertical video, even as a second screen. It’s only a matter of time before streaming companies figure out verticals is a route they’re missing out on,” Hernandez told us. **So how do creators get into the right rooms? **Platform relationships seem to help. Hernandez and Maystrik, along with creators including pop culture commentator [Louis Levanti](https://www.tiktok.com/@louislevanti?lang=en) and video essayist [Mina Le](https://www.instagram.com/p/DUBW1CJDyx5/?hl=en&img_index=1), were part of a creator group TikTok brought to Sundance as part of its #FilmTok initiative. “We were able to enter into spheres with A24 and got on the press line at Sundance. TikTok is really helping bridge that gap to allow us to be in these spheres thanks to their relationships with these companies and studios,” Maystrik said. **Big picture: **Film festivals like [Cannes](https://www.instagram.com/p/DJ7ano2OFDS/?hl=en) and [TIFF](https://www.instagram.com/p/DOUKaPiEQwR/?hl=en) can elevate creators’ content, from [podcasts](https://www.instagram.com/wehaveyapathome/?hl=en) to vertical scripted sketches, durafest2 told us. “Not only are we utilizing film content with IP and brand recognition, but we’re starting to evolve into minute-plus series that we create on our own, and can develop into premium content,” Maystrik said. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # How This Commentary Creator Reconnected With His Audience View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/4bccf1e5-2815-4dbb-9acd-a0d1efb92323/0130_Article_Photo_2_150x.png?t=1769790719) Caption: D'Angelo Wallace returns to YouTube, filming all videos in front of a live audience / [D'Angelo](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TnKQMbYkhdI) After taking a break for over a year, commentary creator [D’Angelo Wallace](https://www.youtube.com/@d-angelo.) is back with a new content strategy: filming videos on livestream. **Let’s back up:** Over the past eight years, Wallace has racked up 4.3 million subscribers and 278 million views across three separate channels, making videos about [internet trends](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ragP9pIy39M), [pop culture](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uRAoQOLUw-w), and [creator](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zY_fY5qk6-0) [controversies](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nDb6-9-MTw4). He decided to take a break in late 2024 [after backlash](https://youtu.be/TnKQMbYkhdI?si=TNf-994pPSkOH5zd&t=792) to a video covering Starbucks. His realization? The average commentary viewer had changed. “Before, there was an expectation of the creator having the majority of the knowledge and the viewer accepting the delivery,” Wallace told us. “But now people come into commentary, oftentimes already knowing much about the situation at hand.” **His solution?** Involve the audience (with boundaries).  * Wallace now films all of his videos on livestream, bringing a loose outline of the day’s topic and letting his audience challenge him, ask questions, or propose new POVs.  * He disabled paid memberships and Super Chats to create an equitable experience for viewers, and Wallace uses a third-party app to block usernames and view counts while streaming. “This is still 100% a video-first content strategy, despite the live recording. That is why I've attempted to minimize some of the more stream-exclusive methods of interacting with people,” Wallace said. His revenue comes mostly from AdSense (although he’s starting to do brand deals again). **Zoom out:** Wallace encourages other creators to assess how their audiences’ needs may have changed over the years.  “I think that is a trap that unfortunately many creators at this stage fall into, where your audience appears to be clamoring for the thing that they've always gotten, but your audience has also shifted in subtle ways,” Wallace said. “A lot of it comes down to how willing are you to be a student again?” View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Inside TBPN’s Ad Strategy View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/5e65652d-4036-4369-8047-8caf45907cf4/0130_Article_Photo_3_150x.png?t=1769790819) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: John Coogan (left) and Jordi Hays (right) sit down with 'The Colin and Samir Show' / Photography by Jesse Leon Three-hour daily tech news show [TBPN](https://x.com/TBPN), started by business creators [John Coogan](https://x.com/johncoogan) and [Jordi Hays](https://x.com/jordihays), has grown a loyal following and secured big-name guests from Mark Zuckerberg to Sam Altman…**in just one year.**   Hays and Coogan, who expect to read 5,000 ads next year, have become masters of brand partnerships. They sat down [with Colin and Samir](https://x.com/ColinandSamir/status/2016582121037713578) to share their strategy → **Pitch brands like a Formula 1 team. **Brands sponsor for a season and pay on a monthly or annual basis. “You’re giving us revenue predictability, we’re going to go above and beyond to get you as many relevant impressions as we possibly can,” Hays said. Like sports teams, TBPN focuses on innovating both overlays (such as logos on stream) and host-read ads.  **Develop pride around brand partners. **In a culture where viewers want to skip ads, TBPN tries to make each ad cool—like selling a [rugby polo](https://tbpnmerch.com/product/app-5) with brand logos on it. “It was another point of differentiation,” Coogan said. “Many tech podcasts were monetizing in other ways, like having a business on the side. So the idea of being the exact opposite of that—maximal advertising—is sorta funny [...] but when we thought it through it’s about being pro the companies we work with.” To hear more on how TBPN built the stamina for a daily show and why they’re averse to scaling, check out their full [interview with Colin and Samir](https://x.com/ColinandSamir/status/2016582121037713578).   View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Comedy creator Anania](https://www.instagram.com/p/DUGTn-hDp8n/?hl=en) joins the Broadway cast of _The Rocky Horror Show_. * [Spotify](https://www.theverge.com/news/870288/spotify-group-chats-direct-messaging-expansion) adds group chats to its DM feature. * [Apple Creator Studio](http://creatorstudio.apple.com/info/try) brings the best creative apps for film, music, design, and more together in one subscription.* * [Meta](https://finance.yahoo.com/news/meta-prepares-paid-tiers-instagram-130109983.html?guccounter=1) is testing paid tiers on Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp. * [Public Opinion](https://www.axios.com/2026/01/29/track-star-show-gus-wenner-invests) gets a seven-figure investment from former _Rolling Stone_ CEO Gus Wenner’s VC firm, Wenner Media Ventures. * [Dhar Mann](https://parade.com/culture/nfl-names-dhar-mann-first-chief-kindness-officer) is named the NFL’s “Chief Kindness Officer” in preparation for Super Bowl LX.  * [The city of Los Angeles](https://variety.com/2026/digital/news/los-angeles-5-million-subsidy-microdrama-production-1236644022/) is considering a $15 million subsidy for microdramas. _*This is sponsored content_ View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 📚️ Thank You for Pressing Publish _The content we’re looking forward to reading, watching, and listening to this weekend._ * **Read:** Ahead of next weekend’s Super Bowl, Zachariah Reitano, CEO of telehealth company Ro, [goes deep](https://x.com/zreitano/status/2016862026501378535?s=46) on why Super Bowl ads are so expensive. * **Watch:** Markiplier’s sci-fi horror flick, _[Iron Lung](https://ironlung.com/)_, is out now, playing in 4,105 theaters worldwide. * **Listen:** On the _Social Currency_ podcast,** **Betches co-founder Sami Sage [outlines](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lsJ7S7MBFho) how she bootstrapped her media company, scaled it through comedy, and sold it for $24 million. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/this-film-festival-is-changing-for-creators

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/9d953542-8031-4807-8866-f35aca7e23ce/0128_Header_No_Sponsor_150x.png?t=1769617653) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning.** If you’re reminiscing on the days of tripping over your big red MSCHF boots, then LEGO and Crocs’ newest collab might be for you. What the [brick-shaped clogs](https://www.crocs.com/p/lego-brick-clog/211719.html) lack in practicality, they make up for in a $150 price tag. Sign us up. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Why Are TikTok Views Suddenly Changing? View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/70aa63da-6101-4a16-b7ea-ccc9119d6241/0128_Article_Photo_1_150x.png?t=1769616537) Caption: News creator Dylan Page says his political videos have been suppressed on TikTok / [Dylan Page](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfiGWak3_-M) In the days following the [sale](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/want-to-grow-get-smaller) of a majority of TikTok’s US business to a group of American companies, creators have noticed significantly lower views and engagement on videos. Catch up quick on the TikTok timeline** →** * **December 22, 2025:** TikTok US sells to a joint-venture led by Oracle, Silver Lake, and MGX. * **January 22, 2026:** The deal closes, and TikTok users receive a notification about new [terms of service](https://www.tiktok.com/legal/page/us/terms-of-service/en) detailing which data the app will now collect (like precise location tracking). * **January 25, 2026:**** **Users report app glitches, including [low engagement](https://www.instagram.com/p/DT8wHvqEh-k/?hl=en&img_index=1), [suppressed videos](https://www.tiktok.com/@tr8ss/video/7599758014458989854?lang=en), and demonetization. When we asked you earlier this week, 64% of Press readers noticed a change in their For You Page, with some reporting that all content related to ICE raids and President Donald Trump was gone from their feeds. **What do the new owners say? **Oracle attributed the viewership glitches to a [data center outage](https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/oracle-says-outage-data-center-causes-issues-faced-by-us-tiktok-users-2026-01-28/). But regardless of the root cause, TikTok took a hit: a [130% increase](https://apnews.com/article/tiktok-uninstalls-newsom-censorship-f38b265405f734993728c790dcc83bcc) in uninstalls since the deal took effect. **What creators are saying:** * Commentary creator [Amanda “Swell Entertainment” Golka](https://www.youtube.com/@SwellEntertainment) reported multiple videos (both political and apolitical) sitting at zero views for hours during the outage. Although YouTube is her main source of monetization, Golka said she worries for creators who earn the most on TikTok. “The job market is horrible, and a lot of these creators do rely on TikTok for income,” Golka told us. * At the risk of losing monetization on TikTok, news creator [Dylan Page](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfiGWak3_-M) dropped a long-form YouTube video on his own experience with TikTok demonetization and video suppression, interviewing former and current TikTok employees. **What’s next:** Some creators and users are moving to different platforms. Short-form video platform [UpScrolled](https://www.forbes.com/sites/conormurray/2026/01/26/tiktok-competitor-upscrolled-surges-on-app-store-amid-allegations-tiktok-suppresses-anti-ice-videos/) is currently No. 1 on Apple’s social networking charts.  View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Dhar Mann Inks Microdrama Deal with Fox Entertainment View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/24700c78-c2e5-4f14-8d33-353c0d22f401/0128_Article_Photo_2_150x.png?t=1769616570) Caption: Dhar Mann Studios and Fox Entertainment are releasing microdramas this spring / [Dhar Mann](https://www.dharmann.com/about/) **Dhar Mann Studios** just signed a deal to produce 40 vertical drama features with **Fox Entertainment**. The videos will appear on entertainment tech company Holywater’s MyDrama platform. **Context:** Last year, microdramas exploded in popularity, making [$11 billion worldwide](https://digiday.com/marketing/in-graphic-detail-the-rise-of-micro-dramas-that-are-attracting-big-ad-dollars/) (for reference, FAST channels generated $5.8 billion). With 83% of microdrama revenue coming from China, US studios are looking to jump on the trend. Enter: Dhar Mann Studios—a creator-led media company with over 85 million followers cross-platform and the [second-highest](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/the-creator-s-guide-to-charity-events-32be) gross earnings of any creator (following MrBeast). According to Dhar Mann Studios CEO [Sean Atkins](https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7421629375038570496/), 87% of its Facebook audience has asked for the studio to expand into microdramas. **But why partner with Fox?** “Embracing that we have our own methods of storytelling, as well as sharing that ambition of scope and innovation was so special to Fox and something that was exciting for us as a creator studio,” Dhar Mann Studios head of vertical content [Erin McFarlane](https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinamymcfarlane/) told us.  **Worth noting: **Fox recently launched [Fox Creator Studios](https://deadline.com/2026/01/fox-creator-studios-launches-food-gordon-ramsay-rosanna-pansino-1236668695/) to develop new IP and formats with digital audiences in mind.  Fox and Dharr Man have started producing their first round of microdramas, launching this spring. “[Microdramas] are written from the ground up specifically for this type of [mobile] experience,” McFarlane said. “These are shot differently, produced differently, and they're really meant to connect with and retain attention and allow people that form of escapism.” View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Why This Creator Company Wants to Pay You $100K View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/30d01af9-8adc-4f17-8862-a2995ed88cf9/0128_Article_Photo_3_150x.png?t=1769616722) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Stan will give its Dare to Dream competition winner one year's salary to run their creator business / [Stan](https://stan.store/blog/dare-to-dream-faq/) For the second year, creator business resource [Stan](https://www.stan.store/?ref=nganopmac644&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22863883147&gbraid=0AAAABAVGX5esvvBxSTVrYBO7rfNNalws4&gclid=Cj0KCQiA4eHLBhCzARIsAJ2NZoK1nBFo_yPKuIf5K9GyzMe94xDWnQLepnQT7GWBz7OHxq4PocgPe3gaAhrMEALw_wcB) is accepting applications for its [Dare to Dream](https://daretodream.stan.store/) campaign, providing one creator with a year’s salary to build out their business using Stan’s creator tools (and $10K to five runners up). Here are the details, **by the numbers:** * **$115K →**** **The total prize money awarded to the winner (between $100K salary and $15K marketing budget). * **47% →**** **The increase in applicants from last year’s competition. * **$1.2M → **Stan’s ROI from last year’s campaign, taking into account new Stan users who signed up to participate in the competition. **Worth noting:** Stan’s campaign prioritizes creators building products for philanthropic causes like a [dementia education platform](https://www.tiktok.com/@caroline_on_dementia/video/7593356055246310678) or charitable [clothing company](https://www.instagram.com/p/DTTY3KJDX3B).  “The biggest thing that's tied to our mission is democratizing entrepreneurship,” Stan’s head of marketing [Rebecca Larzik](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccalarzik/) told us. “How can we make it easily accessible and remove the friction so that anybody can work for themselves?” View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Ex-Paramount CEO Brian Robbins](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/digital/brian-robbins-youtube-big-shot-pictures-studio-eloise-1236486007/) is launching an animation studio for YouTube, adapting IP like _Eloise at the Plaza_. * [YouTube and the NFL](https://variety.com/2026/digital/news/nfl-youtube-2026-flag-football-game-super-bowl-j-balvin-druski-benson-boone-1236642181/) are hosting a flag football game on February 7 with creators including Druski and Deestroying. * [Markiplier](https://likeandsubscribenews.substack.com/p/youtube-markiplier-movie-7-million-ticket-presales) sells $7 million in presale tickets for his movie, _Iron Lung_.  * [Sundance Now](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/sundance-now-to-rebrand-as-algorithm-free-streaming-service-for-indie-film-1236480434/) is rebranding as an “algorithm-free” streaming service. * [IShowSpeed](https://x.com/IShowSpeedHQ/status/2016176802205417867?s=20) is launching a donation campaign for local organizations in countries he visited during his Africa tour. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/something-s-off-with-tiktok

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/dff5ec5c-e2fc-4040-b1dd-43cef4f18ff3/0126_Header_No_Sponsor_150x.png?t=1769445268) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning.** Free solo climber Alex Honnold just took his extreme sport to new heights, scaling the Taipei 101, a 1,667-foot skyscraper in Taiwan—live on Netflix. STEM creator Mark Rober joined the hosting team, ready to calculate the physics of how fast Netflix would need to cut to commercial in case the climb didn’t go so well. Thankfully, it did. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # How a Niche Creator Sold Out His First Award Show View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/53de9eba-6482-4754-8bc1-f687301ac85f/0126_Article_Photo_1_150x.png?t=1769445291) Caption: Syd reports from the red carpet (left) and faux office cubicle (right) at the Assistants vs. Agents Awards / Photography by [Gian Barbarona](https://www.instagram.com/_gkgb_/) and [Carlos Eric Lopez](https://www.instagram.com/carlosericlopez/) Good morning, Sydizens (just something I—hi, it’s Syd—am trying out). Last Thursday, I attended the workplace meme page [Assistants vs. Agents](https://www.instagram.com/assistantsvsagents/?hl=en)’ first award show, an IRL event honoring the best assistants in the entertainment industry.  **Here’s how this 400+ person event sold out in 24 hours.** **Context:** [Warner Bailey](https://www.linkedin.com/in/warnerhbailey/) (a former WME assistant) started Assistants vs. Agents (AvA) in 2018. He’s since grown the page into a full-fledged [media company](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/from-meme-page-to-media-powerhouse-9be4), including an early careers newsletter with 36K subscribers, IRL happy hours, a podcast, and livestreams at other industry events like [ZCON](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R3CWy9qCN28).  **So why an awards show? **“A lot of these award shows always celebrate more public figures and people who have been in their careers longer,” Bailey told us. “We wanted to celebrate the infrastructure behind it.” And the audience was clearly bought in. * Bailey sold all 400+ tickets within 24 hours to an all-assistant crowd.  * Sponsors including Unwell, Calm, and Red Bull (along with Bailey’s personal credit card) made the event happen, and all proceeds from the night were distributed among six different charities. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/e94ec7e7-bffb-4228-962a-10286243c6b7/0126_S1b_150x.png?t=1769445403) Caption: Assistants vs. Agents creator Warner Bailey presents from the podium, which was a copier / Photography by [Ariel Goldberg](https://www.instagram.com/goldberghourphotos/?hl=en) Of the 1,000+ applications Bailey and his five-person team received, AvA chose to honor nine assistants who were heavily involved in both their companies and communities. I was happy to see a digital assistant from UTA, Erica Barry, take home an award. **Zoom out:** As someone who previously worked at CAA as an assistant, I share 178 followers with AvA. But unless you or someone you know works in Hollywood, it’s unlikely that AvA has come across your algorithm. And if you don’t roller skate, you probably haven’t heard of [Oumi Janta](https://www.instagram.com/oumi_janta/?hl=en), a Berlin-based creator with an IRL skate club business.  **That’s the point: **Creators like Bailey and Janta are building highly engaged audiences centered around shared lived experiences (like working in a high-stress environment). In the absence of a monoculture online these days, AvA and its super-niche peers are making the case that even the most highly-targeted audiences are eager for a media company that speaks directly to them. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Finance Creator Buys Back Her Business View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/3bf10434-3132-42d5-9558-75bf75afdc4b/0126_Article_Photo_2_150x.png?t=1769445356) Caption: Katie Gatti Tassin is buying back ownership of her brand / [Money With Katie](https://moneywithkatie.com/) After five years as part of Morning Brew’s portfolio, finance education creator Katie Gatti Tassin has reacquired [Money with Katie](https://moneywithkatie.com/), the brand she started in 2020. In repurchasing the brand, Tassin is bringing her 200K+ subscribers to Substack and pausing her _Money With Katie _podcast. **Catch up quick:** Tassin started _Money with Katie_ in 2020 to teach women about personal finance. Two years later, her blog was acquired by Morning Brew, which helped Tassin grow her newsletter, launch a wealth planning product, and publish a book. “Morning Brew is one of one when it comes to newsletter scaling,” Tassin told us. “They really understand how to build a loyal audience to a voicey news platform. [...] I have no doubt that the only reason that I reached 200K subscribers was because I was part of their ecosystem.” **Inside the incubator:** Morning Brew has solidified itself as an incubator for niche finance and business creators with deals bringing in talent like [Macy Gilliam](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/inside-morning-brew-s-creator-strategy) and [Shreyas Sinha](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/mrbeast-wants-to-pay-you).  **So why buy the brand back now?** To focus more energy on her culture and politics podcast, _Diabolical Lies_. In addition to buying back the newsletter and brand IP, Tassin acquired the file to import her subscribers into Substack. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # US Companies Officially Own TikTok…Now What? View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a7b644d2-cbca-4295-aaaf-84351c99c28d/0126_Article_Photo_3_150x.png?t=1769445501) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: ByteDance splits TikTok ownership to continue running in the US / Illustration by Moy Zhong A year after the [Great TikTok Ban of 2025](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/tiktok-is-back), TikTok US is now majority-owned by American companies. **Behind the deal:** After facing threats of a US ban that would cut off 200 million American users, TikTok parent company ByteDance reached a deal to split app ownership between TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC and ByteDance.  * The US-based joint venture is made up of three investors: Oracle, private equity firm Silver Lake, and tech investment company MGX. * That group now owns 80.1% of TikTok US, leaving ByteDance with 19.9%. The new ownership will allow TikTok’s American owners to “secure US user data, apps, and algorithms,” according to [Reuters](https://www.reuters.com/world/china/tiktok-reaches-deal-new-us-joint-venture-avoid-american-ban-2026-01-23/).  **Worth noting:** After getting push notifications that the app was under new ownership in the US, several creators (including [Meg Stalter](https://www.instagram.com/p/DT8wHvqEh-k/?hl=en&img_index=1) and [TannerTan36](https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=GJopIJAC0nk&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnABt_gaZcJ1DZChZROHaE5YT1C6_jA8SpNwcphjgNBGcqnJnx7Xzo6m0fhPg_aem_Jer6S1a9Wx13j469EedZsA)) have suggested their algorithms are different—for example, they’ve alleged TikToks spreading information about local ICE raids are being suppressed. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 👀 Creator Moves * **Comedy creator Max4Cracks** is hosting an editing competition to find a part-time [video editor](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2111587-editor-max4cracks) for his YouTube channel. * **Engineering documentary channel MegaBuilds **is hiring an [advanced video editor](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2111588-advanced-video-editor-megabuilds) with expertise in GeoLayers3 to edit long-form videos. * **Minecraft creator Dash** is hiring [Minecraft players](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2111589-minecraft-builder-to-control-character-in-game-dash) on a project basis to play in-game characters. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [US Senate Democrats](https://scalablepod.com/p/scoop-senate-democrats-to-host-creator-summit) are hosting a creator summit at the Capitol next month. * [Former YouTube execs](https://variety.com/2026/film/news/artie-company-creators-capital-matt-mcdonald-1236636833/) launch Artie, a company that connects creators to investors to fund creative projects. * [Film creator Alexandra Robinson](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BjA995dP_60) releases her short film,_ Meatball_, on YouTube. * [Dick’s Sporting Goods](https://www.dicksvarsityteam.com/) opens applications for its creator ambassador program. * [Journalist Max Fisher launches a YouTube Channel](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rThhm1-g1a8) with Johnny and Iz Harris’ NewPress. * [X launches “starter packs”](https://x.com/nikitabier/status/2014079005025247240) of creators to follow in specific niches. * [IShowSpeed](https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/celebrity/articles/ishowspeed-getting-own-doritos-flavor-115547158.html?guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAGWQHFxPw0pXwMxlYWsvDCLV75W7YKp7Mam5USjxzbVlYTCOb4rSuvhea819tm3TLjAvTAj_rVUJ1QaE4mly1GrKn7wBMOX7SsweXLgb9Uv87rJT8GFKe0pZnOi-EGtRdjh6rlw1MdfaGGxtBR08tKxfF-UdPi90yd4XW91S5F6C&utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email&guccounter=2) is releasing a chip with Doritos. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/want-to-grow-get-smaller

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/e940ca1a-f019-4b45-a5c9-5735b09403a5/0123_Header_No_Sponsor.png?t=1769186302) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning.** The Academy Awards announced nominations yesterday, and _Sinners_ walked away with a whopping 16 noms—more than any other movie in the history of cinema. And if you missed it the first time, the film is now back in theaters ahead of the Oscars. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186967) Caption: # Speeed Lays Out the New Rules of YouTube View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/ff091f6e-fa14-44d4-b4ef-c7ce1978cc2e/0123_Article_Photo_1.png?t=1769186337) Caption: Jesse Wood (left) and James Pumphrey (right) of Speeed guest on 'The Colin and Samir Show' / [Photography](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bZyevFMM8ZU) by Jesse Leon Since men's lifestyle YouTube channel [Speeed](https://www.youtube.com/@SpeeedCo) launched mid 2024, its viewership has been in overdrive. Despite covering a variety of niches—clothing, cars, life lessons, and outdoors—they’ve cultivated an engaged audience with 2 million subscribers and 78 million views. Founders [Jesse Wood](https://www.instagram.com/jessewould/?hl=en) and [James Pumphrey](https://www.instagram.com/jamespumphrey/), [formerly](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/youtube-golf-gets-big-stamp-approval) producers and talent at auto channel Donut, sat down with Colin and Samir to [share the secrets](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bZyevFMM8ZU) behind their success. Here are the highlights → **Know your references.** Pumphrey and Wood claim that authenticity is crucial in building audiences. Part of that authenticity comes from being entrenched in the community you are part of. “If you’re going to work in a medium or an art form, you have to be a fan of the medium and art form,” Pumphrey said, citing YouTube creators [Emma Chamberlain](https://www.youtube.com/@emmachamberlain) and [Will Tennyson](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCB2wtYpfbCpYDc5TeTwuqFA) as inspirations. **Have loose, but optimistic bookkeeping. **“It’s important to not get caught up in optimization,” Wood said. “You need to be able to play, make misses, and break things.” For creators able to take financial risks, Wood says that focusing on ROI can put a damper on creativity. **Develop a point of view.** “Every video has been made. Every subject has been covered,” Pumphrey said. “You just have to make it yours.”  With 20 million videos uploaded to YouTube daily, Wood and Pumphrey said they don’t present information the same way they used to at Donut Media. By reframing ideas to fit their personal style (i.e. “The History of Volkswagen” becomes “How Volkswagen Turned Their Back on Us”), Speeed is adapting their POV to stand out. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # What’s Next for Overheard NY? View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/9a015022-275f-437f-877e-c3ff69e7db9c/0123_Article_Photo_2.png?t=1769186497) Caption: Media brand Overheard has grown from a meme page to events, short-form video series, and book club  / [Overheard](https://overheardhq.com/) Meme brand [Overheard](https://www.instagram.com/overheard/)—best known for posting [quotes](https://www.instagram.com/p/DTNrClrDdOv/) of real conversations overheard in cities like NY and LA—just turned 10.  We talked to Overheard’s vice president [Justyna Gawlik](http://linkedin.com/in/justyna-gawlik-01b54249), on the key to the brand’s staying power. Maybe 2026 _really is_ the new 2016.  **Business snapshot:** * Overheard has grown from one Instagram account into a network of 14, generating an average of 23 million impressions per month. * In 2023, it was acquired by [Doing Things](https://doingthings.com/#brands), the entertainment company behind creator brands like Bob Does Sports and Recess Therapy.  * Today, Overheard operates with a five-person team and a roster of freelancers, with most revenue coming from brand partnerships spanning meme accounts, video, and live events. For Gawlik, staying power comes down to relatability. “Instagram changes constantly, but at the end of the day it’s about connecting to humans,” she said. “When you make content that resonates it will inevitably perform.” That means hiring Gen Z and millennial staff who share the audience’s pop-culture instincts and treating followers as participants. “We never want to talk to the audience—we always want a conversation with them,” Gawlik said. Overheard staff replies to DMs (maintaining relationships with fans that stretch back nearly a decade), runs an advice hotline, and hosts a book club. **Zoom out:** After relaunching its flagship account in 2025 and rolling out formats like [Happy Hour](https://www.instagram.com/p/DTeJV6IEQfn/?hl=en) and [Relationship Rehab](https://www.instagram.com/p/DOokullEf3E/), Overheard is focused on deepening community with its new properties. “Last year was a growth year,” Gawlik said. “This year is an investment year.” View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # Headline Roundup: Everything Is Becoming TV View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/6c59ef64-f171-4b94-9881-fa3f3055a664/0123_Article_Photo_3.png?t=1769186568) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Substack launches a beta of its TV app / [Substack](https://on.substack.com/p/introducing-the-substack-tv-app-now) While Charli xcx might say that [everything is romantic](https://open.spotify.com/track/5sMEEjviCkH6Rp5X2ZvIIc?si=36c5e29d5c76443a), or Sky Ferreira might counter that [everything is embarrassing](https://open.spotify.com/track/70v5mCvyPRquTyU7qTIU81?si=50c933481bb54de4), platforms from Instagram to Netflix are declaring a new reality for creators: Everything is TV. Here’s the latest → **Substack launches a TV app:** [Available](https://on.substack.com/p/introducing-the-substack-tv-app-now) in beta, the newsletter platform made its videos and livestreams free to watch on smart TV for both paid and unpaid subscribers. Substack says that features like read-alouds and in-app upgrades to paid content will soon be added to the TV app. **Disney+ is adding vertical video.** After the integration of a short-form feed to the ESPN app [in 2025](https://espnpressroom.com/us/press-releases/2025/08/espn-launches-new-direct-to-consumer-service-enhanced-espn-app/), Disney+ is [bringing the feature](https://deadline.com/2026/01/disney-plus-vertical-videos-ces-1236665836/) to their flagship TV app. The feed will contain both original short-form programming and repurposed scenes from TV shows and films. **Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos changes his tune on YouTube.** Less than a year after saying YouTube was a place to “[kill time](https://www.thewrap.com/ted-sarandos-netflix-youtube-business-models/),” Sarandos said the platform is Netflix’s biggest competition for TV viewing. “We all compete with [YouTube] in every dimension, for talent, for ad dollars, for subscription dollars, and for all forms of content,” Sarandos [recently said](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/digital/netflix-instagram-threat-regulators-1236479345/) on an earnings call. Netflix is actively signing deals with several creators, including [Alix Earle](https://www.netflix.com/tudum/articles/alix-earle-reality-series-release-date-news), [Jake Shane](https://deadline.com/2026/01/therapuss-with-jake-shane-48-hours-podcast-netflix-1236690355/), and [Alan Chikin Chow](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/alan-chikin-chow-goes-to-netflix). View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [BBC ](https://www.bbc.co.uk/commissioning/news/brief-youtube-perspectives-channel-january-2026/)is looking for UK-based production companies to develop formats on BBC’s ‘Perspectives’ YouTube channel. * [Music creator Emily Hopkins](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6r84eRn0gr4) releases an effects pedal for electric instruments. * [The US and China](https://www.politico.com/news/2026/01/22/us-and-china-sign-off-on-tiktok-deal-sources-say-00741341) finalize a deal to sell TikTok to US investors. * [Amelia Dimoldenberg partners with Adobe](https://variety.com/2026/digital/news/adobe-film-tv-fund-2026-amelia-dimoldenberg-rideback-rise-1236637098/) to launch a $10 million fund to help creators make TV shows and movies. * [Creator Camp film ](https://www.fandango.com/two-sleepy-people-2025-243090/movie-overview)_[Two Sleepy People](https://www.fandango.com/two-sleepy-people-2025-243090/movie-overview)_ releases in 500 theaters across the US this weekend. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2e5fb3a9-11d3-45f1-967e-8eca4950d0e8/25-0121_Divider-Full_Logo-Grey.png?t=1769186993) Caption: # 📚️ Thank You for Pressing Publish _The content we’re looking forward to reading, watching, and listening to this weekend._ * **Read:** For _Slate, _writer Byard Duncan battles existential dread by trying to break a Guiness World Record for throwing a [rubber chicken](https://slate.com/life/2026/01/aging-millennial-midlife-crisis-guinness-world-record.html?src=longreads) the furthest distance. * **Watch:** Challenge creator Biaheza builds his first “[micro car camper](https://youtu.be/FuRSkznaUEo?si=z0HDFQx6NqSURDaU)” out of a Honda Element, with plenty of memes along the way. * **Listen:** Longtime YouTuber [Tana Mongeau](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ivkcEw6Dnig) celebrates one year of sobriety, and reflects on her decision to start the journey. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/9-rules-for-youtube-in-2026

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/1a183f90-07c7-4a42-a845-2ebb113aaad5/0121_Header_No_Sponsor.png?t=1769013511) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning.** Music review site Pitchfork is launching a subscription service for the first time, allowing users to rate and review albums for $5 per month. But no need to pull out your credit card—if you want to fight about who has superior music taste, just reply to this email and Syd will do it for free. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: # Netflix Scores Alan Chikin Chow Scripted Series View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/cdb39324-3b88-45f0-870b-439511d55618/0121_Article_Photo_1.png?t=1769013523) Caption: Alan Chikin Chow’s upcoming scripted series with HYBE America will premiere on Netflix / Photography by [Reinhardt Kenneth](https://www.netflix.com/tudum/articles/alan-chikin-chow-k-pop-series) Teen entertainment creator Alan Chikin Chow is launching an original scripted series [on Netflix](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NN4P-m70_po). **Context:** Chow—whose YouTube channel, [Alan’s Universe](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5gxP-2QqIh_09djvlm9Xcg), boasts 99 million subscribers and 59 billion views—announced a partnership with entertainment company HYBE America [last April](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/inside-morning-brew-s-creator-strategy) to find talent across YouTube Shorts. The resulting series, originally set to launch on Chow’s YouTube channel, is now [debuting](https://www.netflix.com/tudum/articles/alan-chikin-chow-k-pop-series) on Netflix as a continuation of the Alan’s Universe brand.  **Worth noting:** HYBE America led the formation of the international girl group KATSEYE, and the Korean branch of HYBE created K-pop groups like BTS and NewJeans.  “With a proven visionary like Alan, who is at the forefront of the creator ecosystem, we’re setting out to produce a groundbreaking series that expands audiences, possibilities, and how fandom is built from day one,” James Shin, HYBE America’s president of film and television, [told ](https://variety.com/2026/tv/news/netflix-hybe-america-alan-chikin-chow-k-pop-tv-show-1236634923/)_[Variety](https://variety.com/2026/tv/news/netflix-hybe-america-alan-chikin-chow-k-pop-tv-show-1236634923/)_.  Chow will produce, showrun, direct, and star in the series, which centers around an aspiring group of K-pop artists. **Big picture:** Netflix has displayed an increased interest in creators—like its partnership [with Mark Rober](https://www.netflix.com/tudum/articles/mark-rober-netflix) and foray into podcasts. Given the explosive success of _KPop Demon Hunters_ (with 325 million [all-time views](https://www.netflix.com/tudum/top10/most-popular)), Netflix is bringing together two popular verticals (creators and K-pop) with the series. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: # Salary Transparent Street Sells for Seven Figures View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/c9e78db3-0c51-41dc-b8f4-4b1809f304b3/0121_Article_Photo_2.png?t=1769013612) Caption: Hannah Williams announces the sale of her finance education media company Salary Transparent Street / [Salary Transparent Street](https://www.instagram.com/p/DL-tAR6yAlF/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) Finance education creator Hannah Williams recently sold her business, [Salary Transparent Street](https://www.instagram.com/salarytransparentstreet/)** **(STS), to media company [NowThis](https://www.instagram.com/nowthis/?hl=en) in a seven-figure deal. **Catch up quick:** Over the past four years, Williams built an audience of over 2 million by [interviewing strangers](https://www.tiktok.com/@salarytransparentstreet/video/7472447096885366058?lang=en) about their salaries. Beyond short-form video, STS expanded into a [podcast](https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUd9tE6VxZv-HQVCMJdio7jqMyR6Ce4Ms), job site, and [salary database](https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnyI-JeYM1DDvt62YuDatv8BkswdDZgE65Ie9XlLme-zszw46uy-iv7MzBtxQ_aem_uCIIIsNzY8uw40kxmIxVNA)—all designed to increase pay transparency. **Why sell now? **Williams said priorities shifted as the business grew. “A couple years ago, I would’ve said ownership was incredibly important, but I think now more than ever, creator support is what’s needed to sustain a life in the creator economy,” Williams told us. As CEO and head of brand partnerships, she was stretched thin and wanted to refocus on content. **The fine print →** * Williams described the deal as an “acqui-hire.” NowThis acquired STS’s IP and media properties, including its podcast, job site, and newsletter. * Williams and her partner, James, will continue to lead STS as NowThis employees, earning the same salaries they paid themselves as owners—between $100K and $150K each.  With NowThis handling production and ad sales, the duo can focus full-time on content while supervising NowThis original programming. “Before the sale, I was doing 90% of our brand partnerships,” Williams said. “Now we have a dedicated sales team that can help us better monetize and scale.” **Zoom out:** Creators are often likened to athletes— high-output, high-performance, short careers. But partnerships with larger media companies can offer _longevity_. For Williams and other creator-media collaborations like [Macy Gilliam](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/inside-morning-brew-s-creator-strategy) and Dan Toomey with Morning Brew, the infrastructure and backing of a larger brand can unlock a more sustainable future. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: # YouTube’s Bets for 2026 View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/680dd853-2fb3-4289-bf49-832378877fda/0121_Article_Photo_3.png?t=1769013660) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: YouTube CEO Neal Mohan announces the platform's 2026 goals / [Neal Mohan](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YXJVOffU4iA) Today, YouTube CEO Neal Mohan outlined [his priorities](https://blog.youtube/inside-youtube/the-future-of-youtube-2026/) for the platform in the year ahead.  Here’s what creators need to know → **Deepening streams of revenue.** YouTube is improving its creator partnerships hub for brands to connect with creators and promoting “fan funding features” like subscriptions and gifting. **Prioritizing education while keeping kids and teens safe.** “Our goal is to ensure YouTube remains a place for exploration while empowering parents to guide the journey,” Mohan wrote. YouTube recently [rolled out](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/the-creators-making-a-tv-series-with-love-island) AI-powered age verification to some users and has plans to expand the program over time. **Building stronger AI transparency.** Mohan encourages AI use in both long- and short-form content (from auto-dubbing to generative tools), but he said that YouTube will encourage correct labeling of AI content and improve its [likeness detection](https://support.google.com/youtube/answer/16440338?hl=en) feature so creators can control whether AI videos of them appear on the platform. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Smosh, Morgan Jay, Trisha Paytas](https://www.netflix.com/tudum/articles/netflix-is-a-joke-fest-2026-los-angeles-lineup-dates-tickets), and more creators are performing at Netflix Is A Joke Festival in Los Angeles.  * [X](https://x.com/XCreators/status/2012306731867717852?s=20) announces a $1 million competition for the top article (based on impressions), open until January 28. * [BBC](https://www.ft.com/content/cdcfbec7-1472-4161-a29f-71426333bd40) inks a deal with YouTube to make original programming on the platform. * [Film creator Jonah Feingold](https://www.instagram.com/p/DTwYOe0jCJC/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D) is writing a movie starring Keenan Thompson and Kel Mitchell. * [Unwell](https://www.instagram.com/p/DTdBP__FOFm/) launches a short-form office comedy series. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/alan-chikin-chow-goes-to-netflix

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/eb23eacd-e5f2-418c-8504-30b555b2a131/0119_Header_No_Sponsor.png?t=1768839765) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning.** “Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.” Today, the US honors civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. You probably know snippets from some King’s most impactful speeches, but what you might not know? How long it took the holiday to be recognized nationwide. The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture outlines the [15-year battle](https://nmaahc.si.edu/explore/stories/15-year-battle-martin-luther-king-jr-day) for MLK Day. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: # Khaby Lame’s Company Just Got Bought for $900M View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a6020cac-1f47-4187-a0bb-e8ffb8f74860/0119_Article_Photo_1.png?t=1768839792) Caption: Khaby Lame sells his operating company for over $900 million / [Khaby Lame](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DSpTqzpD5Cs/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) With over 250 million followers across platforms, comedy creator [Serigne Khabane “Khaby” Lame](https://www.tiktok.com/@khaby.lame?lang=en) just added a few more million (dollars) to his name. Hong Kong-based financial company Rich Sparkle Holdings [announced plans](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/rich-sparkle-holdings-closes-acquisition-of-tiktok-icon-khaby-lames-core-company-302658017.html) to acquire Lame’s operating company, Step Distinctive Limited, in a deal valued between between $900 and $975 million. **Behind the deal:** Step Distinctive Limited—an e-commerce company of which Lame owns 49%—is being acquired through an all-stock deal, which was made by issuing 75 million shares. Following the announcement, Rich Sparkle shares rose over 250% on Friday. As of this morning, the stock is up about 50% for the week.  **What is Lame turning over? **Rich Sparkle Holdings will hold exclusive rights to Lame’s commercial business for the next three years. That includes an AI Twin integration, which will allow Lame’s likeness to be licensed for commercial use. **Zoom out: **Lame is using a growing operating company to position himself in the market as more than just a creator—a playbook with a strong track record. Last year, MrBeast announced plans to enter [business verticals](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/mrbeast-announces-new-companies) like financial and mobile phone services, while other creators like Anthpo are using their influence to expand into [marketing services](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/the-lookalike-contest-creator-launches-a-brand-agency). View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: # Inside Jesser’s Content Pivot View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/d51b2b44-c558-4ff4-b305-9d4366b78288/0119_Article_Photo_2.png?t=1768839860) Caption: Jesser announces a change in channel directions / [Team Jesser](https://youtu.be/TCwAT_GzpkE?si=CLkF3iWIURWGHoEC) Basketball creator Jesser recently announced [big moves](https://youtu.be/TCwAT_GzpkE?si=tQqqtCJXiXDfgWHh) for his YouTube strategy—doubling the uploads on his main channel, starting a gaming channel, and evolving his second channel, [Team Jesser](https://www.youtube.com/@TeamJesser). **We talked to Head of Team Jesser**, [Dan Lambert](https://www.linkedin.com/in/danlambert98/), to gain insight. **Context: **Last year, Jesser rebranded his Reacts channel to Team Jesser—changing to an ensemble cast with IRL shoots that take up to 4x longer to produce.   “Moving away from content that delivers consistent viewership and predictable revenue isn’t a decision we took lightly,” Lambert told us. “Ultimately, after 500 videos, Jesser just wasn’t as excited about making reaction videos as he once was, and when your content business is built around the creator that excitement is everything.” Despite a heavier production lift, **the changes to Team Jesser resulted in a record year for the channel**.  * Monthly viewership grew 21% in 2025 despite posting less. * Videos averaged 1.5 million views each. * The channel grew by 920K subscribers. Lambert told us the evolution of the second channel teed Jesser up for 2026: doubling down on main channel content and starting a gaming channel. **Big picture:** In the last year, Jesser began syndicating his content on platforms [including Hulu](https://www.hulu.com/series/jesser-ball-or-nothing-fea0e8cd-0768-4897-ae14-8cff29a7a76b) and [Tubi](https://tubitv.com/series/300018379/jesser). Jesser videos also charted [on Spotify](https://frontofficesports.com/spotifys-top-10-sports-podcasts-and-audiobooks-of-2025/) as a top sports podcast. Despite the increased reach across platforms, Lambert told us _YouTube_ still remains the core pillar of the brand. “After a year of running a group channel, we’ve learned a lot and heard from our audience, so we’re making changes again,” Lambert said. “We’ve realized how big the demand for more Jesser content has been and are doubling down on this in 2026. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: # Meet the Photography Creator Developing a 50-Year Archive View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/f2f9b465-3086-4985-8f33-1d884a8d44b6/0119_Article_Photo_3__1_.png?t=1768840618) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Jack Smith (left) is connecting with his late grandfather by digitizing his grandfather's film archive (right) and traveling to the places he once photographed / [A Blank](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DOBC1uNDcSE/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) [Wall](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQRPOIxDV9t/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) UK photography creator Jack Smith (aka [A Blank Wall](https://www.instagram.com/blankwall.uk/?hl=en)) is connecting with the late grandfather he never met, armed with 80K undeveloped photos and a following of 229K. **Quick snapshot:** While visiting his family in 2021, Smith found his grandfather’s photography archive from the years 1945–1987, documenting his world travels with his wife. Smith began the laborious process of sifting through thousands of photos, digitizing them, and selling prints in limited drops—all while making [short-form content](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DSzf2WAjQu8/?hl=en) documenting the project. **So what’s Smith’s strategy for this photography undertaking? **Although Smith runs his own socials, he relies on technicians to help him curate the collection. “Candidly, [there are] elements to the scanning processes, the digitization processes, developing processes, which I still don't understand because they're super technical and really expensive,” Smith told us. **What’s next?** Finding a local audience, while expanding his short-form strategy beyond Instagram. “I realized there's a really big difference between having a global following, and getting people messaging me from all over the world versus bringing people to an event in London,” Smith said. “So that's something I want to work on this year.” View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: # 👀 Creator Moves * **Safiya Nygaard** is hiring a North Carolina-based [short-form producer](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2093467-youtube-shorts-producer-short-form-growth-producer-safiya-nygaard-youtube-channel). * **Michelle Khare** is looking for a [short-form creator](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2095134-short-form-video-creator-michelle-khare-challenge-accepted) to ideate, produce, film, and edit content across her social channels. * **Spy Ninjas** is hiring for a variety of roles, including [head writer](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/1810357-head-writerproducer-spy-ninjas-spy-ninjas) and [creative director](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/1810359-creative-director-digital-media-spy-ninjas). View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Authorblues and more speedrunning creators](https://www.shacknews.com/article/147374/awesome-games-done-quick-2026-final-total-raised) raise over $2 million for cancer research during the Awesome Games Done Quick charity event. * [Jesse James West video producer Jesse Krim](https://luma.com/izf4abbm) is hosting a networking event in New York for creators and TV industry professionals. * How Dr. Jen Ashton Launched a[ $750K Wellness Business in 90 Days](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/1746eeab-f373-401a-a61a-bd3e66ffd5b8?draft=true&utm_source=news.thepublishpress.com&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=beast-games-season-2-goes-worldwide&_bhlid=d548571cad87e088e7be648bf76b596ba92f2d6e).* * [Aviation creator Sam Eckholm](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t_Gueo4eC2w) starts a new docuseries,_ Access Granted_. * [PRIME](https://www.instagram.com/p/DTd8T3GEmLV/?img_index=1) releases a protein drink with fitness creator Bradley Martin. * [Revamped news aggregator site, Digg](https://digg.com/), launches an open beta to the public. *_This is sponsored content_ View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/inside-khaby-lame-s-almost-1b-deal

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/09204ad6-ad34-4560-a751-486fa06c41d3/0116_Header.png?t=1768580926) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/1746eeab-f373-401a-a61a-bd3e66ffd5b8?draft=true&utm_source=news.thepublishpress.com&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=beast-games-season-2-goes-worldwide&_bhlid=d548571cad87e088e7be648bf76b596ba92f2d6e) Caption: **Good morning.** ** **Kai Cenat has returned from a two-month streaming hiatus with a few New Year’s resolutions. In addition to working out and learning how to sew, Cenat is [reading aloud](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PUXVGWsYs4) every day to improve his vocabulary and articulation.  We're very much here for this self-improvement journey. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: # Why UpDating Is Launching a TV Series View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/452e0a0b-75c4-45bb-ab40-a86a3d843847/0116_Article_Photo_1.png?t=1768580955) Caption: 'UpDating' creators Brandon Berman (left) and Harrison Forman (right) sign deal with 'Love Island' producer / Photography by Varun Mummadi _Blindfolds on._ Dating live show and YouTube comedy brand UpDating just signed [a deal](https://variety.com/2026/tv/news/updating-live-dating-youtube-tv-show-1236627659/) with _Love Island _producer ITV America to produce a show for TV and streaming. **Where it started:**  * Over the last eight years, comedians [Harrison Forman](https://www.instagram.com/htforman/) and [Brandon Berman](https://www.instagram.com/bermmy16/) have hosted UpDating as a live show—contestants are blindfolded and answer dating questions on stage in front of an audience.  * Berman and Forman have grown [the show](https://www.youtube.com/@UpDatingShow) to over 5 billion views across social platforms and toured in North America and Europe. **Where it’s going: **Forman and Berman will be executive producers and talent on the TV project, casting and directing the series alongside ITV executive producer Adam Reed. The show will involve a house of contestants and like UpDating, include live audience elements.  “There’s never been a _Love Island_-style show that’s been comedy-driven and that’s what really excited us,” Berman told us. “They see eye-to-eye with us, and we’re going to use our tone and the same vibe on a show that has a format beyond the stage.” **As for the business upside?** “If this hits, we could launch a TV production company and this specific show could be in other countries,” Forman said.  It also opens UpDating to network syndication. “We’ve done over 100 episodes and know the episodes that have broad appeal. So if we can get it syndicated onto platforms that can give it a shot—I think we haven’t even seen where UpDating can go yet,” Berman said. They have yet to set a production date for the TV show. In the meantime, Berman and Forman will 1) continue on their current North America tour 2) focus on their new in-house creative agency, Brand Studio and 3) continue making content across social.  View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: # Platform Roundup: Child Safety Efforts Bulk Up View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/6cc0b627-fcb1-48fc-a846-10ff49b43b5c/0116_Article_Photo_2.png?t=1768581011) Caption: TikTok partners with Linda Tong Planners (left) to create free physical planners for families to manage their children's screen time (right) / [Linda Tong](https://www.instagram.com/lindatongplanners) [Planners](https://lindatongplanners.com/products/ltp-x-tiktok-for-you-calendar-notepad) While 19 children’s online safety bills [wait for a hearing](https://www.techpolicy.press/congresss-bipartisan-child-online-safety-coalition-is-unraveling/) in the House, YouTube, TikTok, and X made changes to encourage healthy screentime habits and protect minors this week. **Here’s the latest →** **X** [updated Grok](https://www.nytimes.com/2026/01/15/business/grok-ai-images-x.html), its in-platform AI model, to prevent it from generating explicit imagery. This update comes after users asked the chatbot to create images of women and alleged minors in revealing clothing. Although the restrictions have been implemented on X, _Wired_ reports [no change](https://www.wired.com/story/elon-musks-grok-undressing-problem-isnt-fixed/) on Grok’s standalone app. **TikTok** [partnered](https://newsroom.tiktok.com/tiktoks-new-for-you-calendar-helps-families-connect-and-build-positive-digital-habits?lang=en) with stationery creator [Linda Tong Planners](https://www.tiktok.com/@lindatongplanners?lang=en) to create a physical planner that encourages healthy screen/life balance for minors. The free planner uses a week-long layout for parents and children to assign tasks, then plan rewards (like scroll time). **YouTube **[rolled out](https://blog.youtube/news-and-events/extending-our-built-in-protections-to-more-teens-on-youtube/) machine learning in the US to determine a user’s age based on watch habits—regardless of the age associated with their account. If an account is flagged as a teen account, YouTube will disable personalized advertising, turn on “digital wellbeing tools,” and add guardrails to recommendations. Users wrongfully flagged as teens can verify their accounts by providing ID to YouTube.   **Worth noting:** Many creators have been skeptical about algorithm-based [age verification](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/how-youtube-age-verification-could-harm-creators-0d0dfc53bb72babd) and whether [social media bans](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/does-ai-have-a-future-in-music) are effective forms of protecting children online. What do you think? **Hit reply** and tell us more. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: Sponsored by [Rare Days and beehiiv](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/1746eeab-f373-401a-a61a-bd3e66ffd5b8?draft=true&utm_source=news.thepublishpress.com&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=beast-games-season-2-goes-worldwide&_bhlid=d548571cad87e088e7be648bf76b596ba92f2d6e) # How a TV Correspondent Won by Owning Her Audience View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/12610887-75a3-4856-91a1-864a18b5db8c/ajenda_PP_1.jpg?t=1768581110) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/1746eeab-f373-401a-a61a-bd3e66ffd5b8?draft=true&utm_source=news.thepublishpress.com&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=beast-games-season-2-goes-worldwide&_bhlid=d548571cad87e088e7be648bf76b596ba92f2d6e) Caption: Leaving ABC News and Good Morning America wasn’t a small bet for Dr. Jen Ashton. Those platforms gave her credibility, name recognition, and millions of viewers. But what they didn’t give her was ownership. So she started her own media company, kickstarting a newsletter on [beehiiv](http://www.beehiiv.com/splash?utm_campaign=publish-press-2026-Partnership&utm_medium=newsletter-ads&utm_source=publish-press&utm_term=2026-01-16). Their all-in-one platform helped Ashton connect with her audience on a deeper level, while making it easy to monetize her content at scale. From there, Ashton rebuilt a direct line to an audience that already trusted her. And with help from [Rare Days](https://www.raredays.com/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=publishpressajenda), she even launched a wellness program that made over $750K in its first 90 days. Want to learn the playbook behind her move from network TV to audience-owned business? [Click here to read the full story](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/1746eeab-f373-401a-a61a-bd3e66ffd5b8?draft=true&utm_source=news.thepublishpress.com&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=beast-games-season-2-goes-worldwide&_bhlid=d548571cad87e088e7be648bf76b596ba92f2d6e). View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: # Hank Green Returns to ‘Crash Course’ After 7 Years View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/fd8fb720-27d2-4951-8870-6c5f05c9aba0/0116_Article_Photo_3.png?t=1768581155) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Hank Green hosts a 'Crash Course' series on scientific thinking / [CrashCourse](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y45KrixWRNg) This week, [Complexly](https://complexly.com/), the parent company of education YouTube Channel [Crash Course](https://www.youtube.com/@crashcourse), welcomed back its founder Hank Green to host a new series on [scientific thinking](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y45KrixWRNg). **Pop quiz:** Vlogbrothers John and Hank Green started Crash Course in 2011 with the goal of making online learning fun. Since then, the channel has produced over 50 courses, gained 16.8 million subscribers and 2.2 billion views, and expanded into Spanish videos and kids’ courses.  With the new series, Crash Course is tackling **media literacy**. “We give people the tools to interpret statistical claims, put individual scientific studies into broader context, and evaluate sources,” Crash Course Executive Producer Meghan Modafferi told us.  **Final exam:** In recent months Hank’s [personal](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FyStPztM7eo&t=94s) [content](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=twQluJ8bWi0) has explored implicit biases and asked viewers to evaluate outcomes based on truth and science.  “No one is more practiced at communicating across that divide than Hank,” Modafferi said.  View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Maya Higa](https://x.com/bloomjpg/status/2011188494300057760?s=46) is hosting a TED Talk at TED2026 in Vancouver. * [Netflix](https://x.com/netflix/status/2011468349620768855) announces its first original video podcast hosted by Pete Davidson. * [Creators 4 Mental Health and Representative Ro Khanna](https://www.tubefilter.com/2026/01/15/creators-4-mental-health-ro-khanna-congress-bill-of-rights/) introduce a Creator Bill of Rights proposal to Congress. * [IShowSpeed](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1BwqkxTBNWI) is the first streamer to livestream inside the pyramids of Giza. * [Spotify](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/digital/spotify-reveals-price-hikes-for-premium-subscribers-in-february-1236474817/) increases prices for Premium subscribers. * [Alix Earle](https://youtu.be/sp3Own1z_bo?si=BPs_Qja2fhSrggih) launches a YouTube show, _Get Real With Me_, produced by her new media company, Hot Mess. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: # 📚️ Thank You for Pressing Publish _The content we’re looking forward to reading, watching, and listening to this weekend._ * **Read:** For _[Rolling Stone](https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-features/colin-samir-creator-industry-youtube-lighthouse-1235498923/)_, CT Jones interviews Colin and Samir (hey, we know those guys!) about their creator strategy for 2026. * **Watch:** What started as a feud between digital photographer [Ayrton Kaleo](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BDi1hjH8oEs) and film “OG” Bernie blossoms into an unlikely friendship between an old school and new school artist. * **Listen:** After 28 years, _[In Our Time](https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006qykl)_ podcast host Melvyn Bragg says goodbye to the BBC show, passing the baton to Misha Glenny. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/the-creators-making-a-tv-series-with-love-island

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/26ef5a25-2c5c-4470-82da-6c766e3372a0/0114_Header.png?t=1768409671) Follow image link: (https://centraltalentbooking.com/bookings/jolly-4?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=publishpress_20260106) Caption: **Good morning.** Kim Farrell, TikTok’s global head of creators, has left the company as the platform restructures its content division. Who might take her place? We’re hoping the global search includes a five-step interview process, three recommendations, and a perfect recreation of the “Renegade” dance. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: # Inside ‘Beast Games’ Season 2 Global Strategy View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/4565f8e4-7859-4585-867f-a8f30ad1c989/0114_Article_Photo_1.png?t=1768409684) Caption: MrBeast (left, right) let creators like Airrack (second from left) make their own content on set and swaps in international hosts like Fede Vigevani (second from right) to promote season two of 'Beast Games' / [Airrack](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XzJuPExcSg8), [Fede Vigevani](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xWOtLHqUWd4) Last week, MrBeast released season two of _Beast Games_ [on Prime Video](https://www.amazon.com/Beast-Games-Season-2/dp/B0G2RVNJMC), quickly topping the US Prime Video charts. **Context: **_Beast Games_ Season 1 was Prime Video’s most-watched unscripted show ever, amassing 50 million viewers in 25 days. The show’s $5 million prize was the largest for any competition series in history, and the show marked one of the biggest partnerships between a streaming platform and a creator to date. So how do you follow a debut like that? With a strategic focus on storytelling and marketing. **MrBeast’s head of marketing, Sinan Deriş, told us** **how** → **Geo-targeted episodes featured international creators.** Viewers in India and Spanish- and French-speaking countries see different versions of episode one and nine.  * Scenes with co-host [Karl Jacobs](https://www.youtube.com/@Karl) were swapped in post-production to feature creators including [Fede Vigevani](https://www.youtube.com/@fedevigevani) from Uruguay, [Amixem](https://www.youtube.com/@Amixem) from France, and [Carry Minati](https://www.youtube.com/@CarryMinati) from India.  * These creators had their own camera operators and the scenes were supplemental to the main storyline, so nothing had to be shot twice, Deriş told us. “The majority of MrBeast’s viewers are outside the US, so why don’t we show them someone in their region that they love to make them more likely to watch?” Deriş said. **43 creators filmed their own content on set. **_Beast Games_ shot across five locations—Nevada, Fiji, North Carolina, Panama, and Saudi Arabia—and invited creators including [Airrack](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XzJuPExcSg8), [Ryan Serhant](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MsNKRsJy0N4), and [FaZe Rug](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pCLXH_bJJfQ) to document the on-set experience for their own channels (excluding Fiji, which was a closed set for a _Survivor_ collaboration episode). **Zoom out: **While season one proved the scale, season two is testing how far emotional investment can go. Early signs suggest it’s working: The show’s Rotten Tomatoes [audience and critic scores](https://x.com/MrBeast_Stats/status/2009159729898246389) are up to 40% higher than last season’s. “The main goal was to make it so people tuning in felt connected to the storytelling of the contestants as soon as possible,” Deriş said. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: # Enjoy Basketball Scales Up View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/8e1e61b6-3a21-4a95-ad48-f2a19afda4ef/0114_Article_Photo_2.png?t=1768409736) Caption: Enjoy Basketball, founded by (left to right) Cody Hock, Kenny Beecham, and Cole Hock, brings in VPs as it expands / [Enjoy Basketball](https://www.forbes.com/sites/mikaibruce/2025/10/15/enjoy-basketball-announces-partnership-with-nbc-sports/) Fresh off expanding its [partnership](https://www.nbcsports.com/pressbox/press-releases/enjoy-basketball-partners-with-nbc-sports-bringing-top-nba-creator-kenny-beecham-to-its-platforms-ahead-of-historic-return-of-nba) with NBC Sports, creator media company [Enjoy Basketball](https://enjoybball.com/) is kicking off 2026 with its first executive hires.  **Catch up quick: **Longtime basketball creator [Kenny Beecham](https://www.instagram.com/kennybeecham_/?hl=en) and brothers [Cole](https://www.linkedin.com/in/cole-hock-2b80a696/) and [Cody Hock](https://www.linkedin.com/in/cody-hock-33961479/)** **founded Enjoy Basketball as a [newsletter](https://enjoybasketball.beehiiv.com/) in 2022.  * It soon expanded into podcasts like_ _[_Numbers on The Board_](https://www.youtube.com/@numbersontheboard), _[Small Ball with Kenny Beecham](https://www.youtube.com/@SmallBallPod)__,_ and _[WAG Talk](https://www.youtube.com/@wagtalk)_.  * Between Beecham and Enjoy Basketball’s channels, the brand has over 4 million followers across socials. * Last October, Enjoy Basketball inked a partnership with NBC to bring its podcasts to NBC Sports Now, airing on linear TV and streaming on Peacock. Beecham also became a regular on NBC’s broadcast team, appearing alongside basketball vets like Carmelo Anthony and Reggie Miller. “We’ve built the foundation of what Enjoy stands for, how we’re resonating with our community, and new audiences we’re trying to bring into the fold,” Cody told us. “The NBC partnership really pushed us over the top.” **Enter: the new hires.** Enjoy Basketball brought on [Devin Dismang](https://www.linkedin.com/in/devindismang/), former head of content at X Games, as VP of Content and [Drew Amer](https://www.linkedin.com/in/drew-amer-3069912b/), formerly of Front Office Sports, as VP of Brand partnerships. Dismang and Amer** **will focus on building out Enjoy’s franchises. “We’re looking to take the pressure off Kenny as well, so he doesn’t have to be in every single program or piece of content that we put out,” Cody added.  **Looking ahead: **Despite the new reach with NBC, YouTube will still be a focus. “We’re looking to create new formats and double down on Enjoy Basketball YouTube. We see athletes coming up who grew up watching Kenny—could we be a platform for them to work with? That’s what excites us,” Cole said. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: Sponsored by [CTB](https://centraltalentbooking.com/bookings/jolly-4?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=publishpress_20260106) # How JOLLY Fed Jack Black the Best Burger in the World View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/4e87da8c-8fb5-471c-8e0c-2c4283a9d935/52.jpg?t=1768409104) Follow image link: (https://centraltalentbooking.com/bookings/jolly-4?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=publishpress_20260106) Caption: JOLLY is a YouTube channel where two friends, Josh and Ollie, explore food from around the world—often with a surprise guest along for the ride. [In a recent episode](https://centraltalentbooking.com/bookings/jolly-4?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=publishpress_20260106), they set out to find the best burger in the world and invited Jack Black to be the judge. The episode traveled fast, passing 1.5 million views in just two weeks. CTB is proud to support JOLLY behind the scenes as they create moments like this with incredible guests. After 26+ years in the industry, partnering with creators at this level is what we love most. Looking to explore a high-profile collaboration for your channel? [CTB would love to work with you](https://centraltalentbooking.com/bookings/jolly-4?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=publishpress_20260106). View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: # Apple Launches Creator App Bundle View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/d8b041f2-e94d-48a8-a201-22450ea1395c/0114_Article_Photo_3.png?t=1768409757) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Apple reveals apps included in its Creator Studio bundle / [Apple](https://www.apple.com/apple-creator-studio/) Yesterday, Apple announced the [Apple Creator Studio](https://www.apple.com/apple-creator-studio/), a monthly subscription service that gives users access to Final Cut Pro, Logic Pro, Pixelmator Pro, and seven other editing and design programs.  Prices start at $12.99 per month. For reference, that’s nearly 5x cheaper than Adobe’s [Creative Cloud](https://www.adobe.com/creativecloud/campaign/pricing.html?sdid=2FDNCC3M&mv=search&mv2=paidsearch&ef_id=CjwKCAiA95fLBhBPEiwATXUsxJs6hdwNufqiEJ0OZL7tynUoldml9_CehO-2qWSWc9N9HfN5zLEMfxoCC10QAvD_BwE:G:s&s_kwcid=AL!3085!3!378086859318!e!!g!!adobe%20collection!151096240!80028929667&mv=search&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=151096240&gbraid=0AAAAAD5r4AyscpBhmXQWDvPvtMb2h7Gxv&gclid=CjwKCAiA95fLBhBPEiwATXUsxJs6hdwNufqiEJ0OZL7tynUoldml9_CehO-2qWSWc9N9HfN5zLEMfxoCC10QAvD_BwE), which gives users access to its suite of 20+ creative tools for $69.99 per month. **Big picture:** With the rise of simple editing tools like CapCut, Affinity, and Canva, Apple is meeting [creator](https://www.tiktok.com/@gregsgadgets/video/7594987111569296670?q=apple%20creator%20studio&t=1768405399142) (and [student](https://x.com/Sankew06/status/2011087953368600685?s=20)) demand with the new bundle. Meanwhile, Adobe has been looking to make inroads with beginner creative tools, releasing [free versions](https://www.adobe.com/products/photoshop/app.html) of its Photoshop and Premiere apps. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: # ➕ Community Tab View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/749e5848-899a-4254-a2cf-f3c4bdab8e6b/Story_2__6_.png?t=1768410834) Caption: Bella Hadid (left) and Pedro Pascal (second from left) host Artists for Aid, featuring over a dozen musicians and poets like Jazmine Sullivan (right) / [Bella Hadid](https://www.instagram.com/p/DTYVkdHCN6c/?hl=en&img_index=1) Hi y’all, it’s Syd. Last Saturday, I was invited by the lovely [Shaina Zafar](https://www.linkedin.com/in/shainazafar/), an executive at UTA, to a concert hosted by [Artists for Aid](https://www.every.org/artists-for-aid-la) benefitting the Palestinian Children’s Relief Fund and the Sudanese American Physicians Association.  **The scene: **I found myself in LA’s Shrine Auditorium among a sea of keffiyehs in possibly the best-dressed crowd I have ever seen.  **The crew: **Shaina invited about 30 creators across niches and backgrounds. I sat next to lifestyle creator [Prayag Mishra](https://www.tiktok.com/@444pray?lang=en), who indulged all my fun facts about the lineup for the night. **The show: **My favorite acts were [Jasmine Sullivan’s](https://www.tiktok.com/@skeyeeyeeyeeyee/video/7594196886085455117) rendition of “I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel To Be Free” by Nina Simone, Cameron Winters’ _Hannah Montana_ moment when he performed [solo](https://www.tiktok.com/@junimarin/video/7594225985487228190?q=cameron%20winters%20artists%20for%20aid&t=1768408661918) _and_ with his band [Geese](https://www.tiktok.com/@joshuagrossman1/video/7594204356531064094?q=cameron%20winters%20artists%20for%20aid&t=1768408661918), and Lucy Dacus bringing Chappell Roan (!!) out for a [duet](https://www.tiktok.com/@iamapunisher/video/7593995419949075767?q=lucy%20chappell&t=1768408708787). **The impact: **The livestreamed event raised over $5.5 million between donations, ticket sales, and merch. I felt extremely grateful for the creator community, and being part of something larger than myself. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Kai Cenat](https://vivetofficial.com/) launches a clothing brand. * [Meta](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cpqye2yygl4o) blocks 550K social accounts in Australia following the country’s social media ban for minors. * How Dr. Jen Ashton Launched a [$750K Wellness Business in 90 Days](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/1746eeab-f373-401a-a61a-bd3e66ffd5b8?draft=true).* * _[The Diary of a CEO](https://www.doacscreenings.com/)_ is hosting podcast episode screenings today in LA and London. * [Amazon](https://www.entrepreneur.com/en-ae/news-and-trends/uae-based-content-creators-can-now-launch-their-brands-on/501789) launches a brand program for UAE-based creators. * 30,000+ social pros track trends before they go viral. Get the latest social media news, expert insights & platform updates—straight to your inbox. [Subscribe for free](https://magic.beehiiv.com/v1/f9337118-ad64-4fbc-898c-05c6259cceb1?email=b@email.gomodulr.com&utm_source=publishpress&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=crosspromo_dec2025). * [Sidemen’s](https://x.com/sidemen/status/2010454844927303897?s=46&t=NmWUNlnKIvC4arpjp1a_kQ) charity soccer match returns to Wembley Stadium on April 18. * [Creator talent agency Link Management](https://variety.com/2026/digital/news/digital-creator-firm-link-management-launches-client-list-1236627196/?utm_source=scalablepod.com&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=dubai-s-influencer-tax&_bhlid=6d93d19ab1d4c5d4428f3322b5c3cd5ab568d087) launches with a creator roster including Caroline Winkler and Chloe Holladay. _*This is sponsored content_ View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/beast-games-season-2-goes-worldwide

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/858a95d9-e5e5-444d-a264-7fb179632383/0112_Header_No_Sponsor.png?t=1768237635) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning.** If you’re a fan of _How It’s Made_, then STEM creator [LabCoatz’s](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TDkH3EbWTYc) video replicating the Coca-Cola recipe will satisfy the conveyor-belt-shaped hole in your heart. Our only request? Do Diet Coke next please. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: # Mythical Sells Its Food Website View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2aab2815-3097-4a7a-8360-89f063d90856/0112_Article_Photo_1.png?t=1768237656) Caption: The Sporked team includes (left to right) Editor-in-Chief Justine Sterling, Managing Editor Gwynedd Stuart, writer Ariana Losch, creator Jordan Myrick, and more / [Sporked](https://www.youtube.com/@sporked/videos) Vice parent company [Savage Ventures](https://www.savage.ventures/) has acquired food editorial website [Sporked](https://sporked.com/) from Mythical.  **Context: **Sporked was founded [in 2022](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/high-steaks) as an editorial companion to Mythical’s food video content. Now, the site has 1.6 million monthly page visits, serving mainly as a grocery store guide, and the accompanying Sporked YouTube channel has 110K subscribers.  **The goal of the deal? **_Go bigger_ with Sporked. “When we got to know Savage, [...] they had a really great portfolio that we respected,” Mythical CEO [Brian Flanagan](https://www.linkedin.com/in/bwflanagan/) told us. “It felt like somebody really spoke our language and could help take that business from where we got it [...] to something bigger and even longer lasting.” Sporked editor-in-chief [Justine Sterling](https://www.linkedin.com/in/justine-sterling/) is taking her entire team with her to Savage—including managing editor [Gwynedd Stuart](https://www.instagram.com/gwyneddstuart/?hl=en), writer [Ariana Losch](https://sporked.com/author/ariana-losch/), and designer [Liv Averett](https://livaverett.cargo.site/).  “We're now looking to be very much our own brand and gain our own audience and our own fans who come to us for us,” Sterling told us.  Stuart added, “I think we've established ourselves enough that we maintain that audience that really enjoyed the content to begin with and they won't be swayed by ownership.” **Zoom out:** Mythical founders Rhett and Link recently announced an indefinite break for their podcast, _Ear Biscuits_. Similarly, the _Try Guys_ recently [shut down](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nJYdBmhmVMI) their podcast. As _Good Mythical Morning_ approaches its 3,000th episode, these cuts are serving as a redirection to focus on strengthening existing IP (much of which is still food content).  “The theme this year will be to capitalize on the success of _GMM_ and _Mythical Kitchen_, those two hopefully generational TV properties that happen on YouTube,” Flanagan said. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: # Fox Launches Creator Studios View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/49dd5acd-b675-4c9a-ad10-05936b2ad2af/0112_Article_Photo_2.png?t=1768237674) Caption: Fox launches a Creator Studios division with food creators (left to right) Rosanna Pansino, Gordon Ramsay, Santiago Massa of Food Theorists, and more / [Rosanna Pansino](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjwmbv6NE4mOh8Z8VhPUx1Q), [Fox](https://deadline.com/2024/03/gordon-ramsays-future-food-stars-season-2-fox-1235842862/), [Santi Massa](https://goldenglobes.com/articles/good-hang-with-amy-poehler-wins-the-first-golden-globe-for-best-podcast/) Fox is the latest linear network to add creators to its roster. Last week, Fox Entertainment announced a [Creator Studios division](https://variety.com/2026/digital/news/fox-creator-studios-gordon-ramsay-rosanna-pansino-deals-1236625027/), featuring food creators Rosanna Pansino, Gordon Ramsay, Sorted Food, Jolly, Food Theorists, and Little Remy Food.  **Zoom in: **The studio is funding production and development of new formats and IP with creators, starting with food content and branching into other verticals down the line.  **Fox’s pitch to creators:** access production resources and advertising infrastructure. And **creators’ draw for Fox?** Reach global audiences where they are (online).  While Fox described the new creator push as a “digtal-first” division, it’s unclear whether these shows will be made for social media or streaming. **Zoom out: **In the last year, [Tubi](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/tubi-or-not-tubi-e0b6f4bca6e8a91b) and Roku have partnered with creators to bring YouTube videos to its ad-supported streaming services. NBC also ran a [creator program](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/outdoor-boys-leaves-youtube-1c0e) to bring original shows to its Peacock streaming service. Could Fox’s Creator Studios provide both? View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: # We Have a Best Podcast View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/27d9e77a-bf17-45e3-8135-e9fe13c73d3a/0112_Article_Photo_3.png?t=1768237754) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Amy Poehler receives the Golden Globe for Best Podcast / [Golden Globes](https://goldenglobes.com/articles/good-hang-with-amy-poehler-wins-the-first-golden-globe-for-best-podcast/) Last night at the Golden Globes, _Good Hang with Amy Poehler_ became the [first show](https://x.com/Variety/status/2010533076879720792?s=20) to win the new Best Podcast category.  **How we got here:** Winning a podcasting Golden Globe doesn’t work the same way as winning one for TV or film. * Only the top 25 podcasts on [Luminate](https://luminatedata.com/)—chosen based on audience reach, financial metrics, and market presence—were eligible for nomination. From there, producers of the eligible podcasts submitted for [Golden Globe consideration](https://goldenglobes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/83rd-Golden-Globes-Eligibility-and-Consideration-Rules-Updated-18Jun2025-1.pdf). * By these standards, only 0.0005% of all podcasts could qualify for nomination. **The creator angle:** Prestigious awards opening the floor to creators—even if it is just the upper echelon—has the potential to further legitimize digital media in the traditional film and television space. “Podcasts were able to become a medium because podcasts is not a proper name,” [Dave Wiskus](https://www.linkedin.com/in/dwiskus/), founder of creator distribution platform Nebula, told us. “Television is not a proper name. Film is not a proper name. [...] I think the lack of proper noun there really changes the way that traditional media people see the podcast as a thing.” View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: # 👀 Creator Moves * Energy Central is looking for a [YouTube producer](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2075838-youtube-producer-energy-central) to develop formats and oversee energy and utility storytelling for both short- and long-form. * The Best One Yet is hiring a [freelance tour videographer](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2075831-tour-videographer-the-best-one-yet) for various US dates throughout the year. * Mythical is looking for a [marketing manager](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2088013-marketing-manager-memberships) to grow its member-based community, Mythical Society. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Spotify](https://newsroom.spotify.com/2026-01-07/spotify-sycamore-studios-la/) opens a podcast studio in West Hollywood. * [Complexly’s](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eG54wcHNloE) _Ask Hank Anything _Season 2 premieres on January 28. * [X](https://variety.com/2026/digital/news/elon-musk-x-twitter-sues-music-publishers-nmpa-1236627621/) files an antitrust lawsuit against music publishers. * [Comedy creators Kyle Gordon and Grace Reiter](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zlPHimW0VNY&list=RDzlPHimW0VNY&start_radio=1) star in OCT’s new music video. * [Ms Rachel](https://abc7ny.com/post/nyc-mayor-zohran-mamdani-spends-morning-ms-rachel-singing-kids-lower-manhattan-school/18377529/) collaborates with NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani as a member of his Inauguration Committee. * [TikTok rolls out Series](https://support.tiktok.com/en/business-and-creator/tiktok-series/about-tiktok-series), which allow creators to put up to 80 videos behind a paywall. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/why-mythical-sold-its-food-website

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/d27c5e1c-3ad9-4659-a353-41205c915684/0109_Header_No_Sponsor__1_.png?t=1767983550) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning. **It’s January 9, and you know what that means. It’s National…*checks notes*...Balloon Ascension Day. So, get out there and…release those balloons, I guess. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: # Epic Gardening Doubles Down on Memberships View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/2767667a-cb6e-4c10-b6eb-83124cc3e6b9/0109_Article_Photo_2.png?t=1767978313) Caption: Epic Gardening, hosted by Kevin Espiritu (left), launches a membership program / [Epic Gardening](https://shop.epicgardening.com/pages/about-us?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=&utm_content=home) Commerce brand and YouTube channel Epic Gardening is turning over a new leaf in 2026—starting with a [membership program](https://shop.epicgardening.com/pages/the-greenhouse-membership). **Context: **Since launching as a blog in 2013, Epic has sprouted into a [multi-million dollar](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/giveaway-gone-wrong) business with over 10 million followers across social and an commerce brand selling raised beds, garden tools, and seeds in over 5,000 stores and online. Ecommerce currently makes up the majority of Epic’s revenue. Last fall it acquired GrowVeg, a UK-based garden planner, which it integrated into its membership benefits.  * “The membership is a way for us to get away from as many brand deals and give more value to the people supporting us,” Epic Gardening founder [Kevin Espiritu](https://x.com/KevinEspiritu) told us.  * The membership (which users can sign up for on Epic’s website) includes free seeds, shipping, a planning guide, and expert advice for $50 per year.  **Fast forward: **“I think it sets us up for some sort of future in which a lot of the value comes from the membership being paid every year. Almost like a Costco-style model, but we don’t know if that will play out or not,” Espiritu said. **Zoom out:** Espiritu says Epic Gardening is targeting $50 million in revenue by the end of the year. The company is strengthening its retail business to get there, while moving its content away from one-off brand deals and toward official partners (think: a preferred soil or feed company). View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: # Why This $50M Creator Fund Chose Abu Dhabi for HQ View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/bbe9e99d-5fe9-49f1-98ad-499dafbde8a1/0109_Article_Photo_1.png?t=1767978254) Caption: Dillon Lawson-Johnson (left) and Criswell Fiordalis (middle) invest in creator-led businesses from Abu Dhabi / Photography courtesy of Guggenheim Brothers Media Private investment firm [Guggenheim Brothers Media](https://guggenheimbrothersmedia.com/) (GBM) recently partnered with United Arab Emirates investment firm Ethmar International Holding to launch an Abu Dhabi-based fund investing in creator-led businesses. We spoke to one of the founders to understand why ➡️ **Quick context: **GBM has previously backed creator brands including comedy studio and talent management company [Stapleview](https://www.tiktok.com/@stapleview?lang=en) and membership club [The Lighthouse](https://www.instagram.com/thelighthousecampus/). * The new fund, led by UTA and Lionsgate alums [Dillon Lawson-Johnston](https://www.linkedin.com/in/dillon-lawson-johnston-4745aa85/) (great-grandson of the founder of NYC’s Guggenheim Museum) and [Criswell Fiordalis](https://www.linkedin.com/in/criswellfiordalis/), will range between $50–70 million.  * The GBM-EIH fund is targeting creator businesses that have proven product-market fit but would benefit from operational help. “We’re looking for someone established who needs institutional help to come and scale it,” Lawson-Johnston told us. **Why Abu Dhabi? **“It’s a place where real institutional capital is combined with long-term vision and ambition to grow something over time,” Lawson-Johnston said. “When we think about the creator economy and these creative businesses, this chapter really demands and needs that type of institutional capital.” **Bigger picture: **The Middle East is increasingly courting creators and the creator industry. Today, the [1 Billion Followers Summit](https://www.1billionsummit.com/speakers) kicks off in Dubai featuring creator speakers PrestonPlayz and MrBeast. Last March, Nas Daily opened [a hotel](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-AO88lJz8iY) in Dubai. And MrBeast recently hosted a [theme park](https://x.com/MrBeast/status/1986490582164795704) pop-up in Saudi Arabia in partnership with the country’s annual event, Riyadh Season. **Worth noting:** The UAE and Saudi Arabia have been linked by the [UN Human Rights Council](https://www.hrw.org/world-report/2025/country-chapters/united-arab-emirates) to alleged human rights violations and unlawful business practices. Over the last decade, these countries have made efforts to repair that image by investing heavily in industries like entertainment and tourism. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: # Discord Heads to Wall Street View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/ebc1f67c-b5b8-4733-9459-843916cd19c5/0109_Article_Photo_3.png?t=1767978356) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Messaging and video platform Discord goes public / [Discord](https://discord.com/) Community messaging platform Discord has confidentially filed for an initial public offering, according [to ](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-01-06/chat-platform-discord-is-said-to-file-confidentially-for-ipo)_[Bloomberg](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-01-06/chat-platform-discord-is-said-to-file-confidentially-for-ipo)_. Discord, which has 200 million monthly active users, is working with Goldman Sachs and JPMorganChase on a listing.  **Context:**  * Discord has made major cuts to staffing, with rounds of layoffs in [2023](https://www.tubefilter.com/2023/08/03/discord-lays-off-several-dozen-people-from-marketing-and-partnerships/) and [2024](https://www.theverge.com/2024/1/11/24034705/discord-layoffs-17-percent-employees). Since then, the platform has focused more of its business on premium membership sales and ecommerce offerings. * Deliberations are ongoing, and the company could decide to not proceed with a listing, the report said. **Looking ahead:** Following the success of Reddit’s IPO [in 2024](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/faze-world-rebrands), Discord going public has the potential to see similar gains. Discord was last valued at $14.7 billion in 2021. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Hannah Stocking](https://variety.com/2026/digital/news/hannah-stocking-playback-musical-microdrama-second-rodeo-1236615037/) is starring in a musical microdrama. * [Lifestyle creator Spencer Pratt](https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2026-01-07/spencer-pratt-announces-run-for-la-mayor-on-anniversary-of-palisades-fire) announces his campaign for LA mayor. * [YouTube](https://www.theverge.com/news/858867/youtube-shorts-search-results-filter) allows users to exclude Shorts from search results. * [Hunter March from YouTube channel Poppies](https://www.netflix.com/games/81949435) is co-hosting Netflix’s new mobile game show, _Best Guess Live_. * [TikTok](https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6954078/2026/01/08/world-cup-tiktok-fifa-agreement/) will be broadcasting live clips of the FIFA World Cup this summer. * [Music creator CG5](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8DDzWWUurRU) teases an album inspired by video games. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: # 📚️ Thank You for Pressing Publish _The content we’re looking forward to reading, watching, and listening to this weekend._ * **Read:** For _Vox_, Max Read and Jonquilyn Hill unpack “[how millennials fell out of love with the internet](https://www.vox.com/explain-it-to-me/473852/is-the-internet-worse-now-millennials)”—asserting that they are no longer the protagonists of the digital world. * **Watch:** Move over Rainbolt. Linguistics creator [Zay Dupree](https://www.tiktok.com/@zaydupree/video/7593003235250638111?lang=en) can accurately pinpoint where his US followers are from by listening to a clip of them speaking. * **Listen:** Are knee-high Uggs and high-low skirts making a comeback? Emma Chamberlain predicts which fashion trends we might see this year on her latest episode of _[Anything Goes with Emma Chamberlain](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8-aEplzuc7Q)_. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/inside-this-creator-s-not-so-secret-garden

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/be768de6-b431-4b3f-92ab-1365e2bb757d/0107_Header_No_Sponsor__1_.png?t=1767804752) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning.** Syd just embarked on her annual two-week Minecraft obsession, so naturally Ryan Trahan had to follow in her footsteps (obsessed much?). Last week Trahan launched a daily [Minecraft channel](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nJWUnY-KV3E), where he will play for 20 minutes every day in 2026—no breaks, no editing, and no excuses. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: # Creators Take on CES View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/9ea1c273-cf2f-47d8-9cfc-d51d4f1983ca/0107_Article_Photo_1.png?t=1767803567) Caption: iJustine (center) and Brian Tong (right) host CES on social media and preview the event with Consumer Technology Association Senior Director Brian Comiskey (left) / [Brian Tong](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TmVwokS3-Kg) The world’s largest tech event, Consumer Electronics Show (CES), is happening this week in Las Vegas. Brands like Intel and John Deere display their latest tech, from [laundry-folding robots](https://www.youtube.com/shorts/JWVRsMruA5o) to [exoskeletons](https://www.youtube.com/shorts/HOPoA15qWtM) for running mobility. Of course, AI is there too. Nvidia [announced](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0NBILspM4c4) self-driving tech and its fastest supercomputer. We spoke to tech creators [Mike O’Brien](https://www.instagram.com/mikeobrienn/) and [Sagi Shilo](https://www.youtube.com/@TechGearTalk) on what creators need to know from the four-day expo → **Creators are playing a larger role in the event**. [iJustine](https://www.youtube.com/shorts/QnJTgUpiU_w?utm_source=news.thepublishpress.com&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=creator-takeaways-from-ces) and [Brian Tong](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TmVwokS3-Kg&utm_source=news.thepublishpress.com&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=creator-takeaways-from-ces) are this year’s event hosts. CES expanded creator programming, covering subjects like AI content strategy and featuring creator speakers like Graham Stephan from _The Iced Coffee Hour_. “Creators are becoming more and more of a focus [at CES]. Brands are designing booths for creators to film. It’s kind of like a fight to get creators to talk about your products,” O’Brien said. **Some of the big themes for creators: **[Humanoid robots](https://www.youtube.com/shorts/5ImH365qiHU), fewer EVs, and simple [AI wearables](https://x.com/prabhu_ram/status/2008724368093048938). * “This year there are so many more robots,” Shilo said. “Ones in commercial settings, sorting on a conveyer belt, to ones for hospitality that greet guests.” * “All these companies that make anything with a display—they’re trying to make smart glasses now. They aren’t trying to be a VR experience, they just want to show you the time,” O’Brien said. **Looking ahead: **While CES is mostly the place for brands to show off futuristic tech, creators say it doubles as the place to build business and plan for future content.  “Meeting with companies and hearing what they think the future is impacts my content,” O’Brien said. “It’s a good way to get insight and determine if I should cover that more on YouTube.” View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: # Challenge Creator Sets CPG Sights on Walmart View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/838cf6c0-3696-4fcf-a1ba-035d3b1017f5/0107_Article_Photo_2.png?t=1767803620) Caption: James Seo (left) starts noodle company Korean Bros selling tteokbokki, kimchi udong, and soba noodles / [James Seo](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TmVwokS3-Kg), [Korean Bros](https://www.korean-bros.com/) “One dollar or a mystery gift?” These six words gained short-form creator [James Seo](https://www.tiktok.com/@itsjamesseo?lang=en) over 10 million followers in four years. Now, he’s taking social tactics he learned from making [man-on-the-street](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPE9HNtEWfP/) [videos](https://www.tiktok.com/@itsjamesseo/video/7576755434602646814?lang=en) to launch [Korean Bros](https://www.korean-bros.com/), a noodle company. **Context:** Seo started making videos in 2022 asking Brigham Young University students what they’re listening to. As his content evolved, he started collaborating with larger creators like [MrBeast](https://www.instagram.com/reel/CtHx3YoO05r/) and musicians like [The Chainsmokers](https://www.tiktok.com/@itsjamesseo/video/7295868537791434026?lang=en). On January 1, he launched Korean Bros, inspired by the cuisine he grew up on. **Selling it:** Seo is using Anthpo-like stunts to promote his noodles: He's hosting a “Worldwide Noodle Slurp Day” on January 11, and he recently held a [mystery box pop-up](https://www.instagram.com/p/DTLzs2Qkjqf/?utm_source=news.thepublishpress.com&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=creator-takeaways-from-ces) at a grocery store in Utah that drew hundreds of fans. His ultimate goal? Stocking Korean Bros noodles at Walmart. **Zoom out: **CPG brands have become a popular [revenue driver](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/creator-beverage-bubble-burst) for creators, but it can be hard to stand out. Seo is applying the hooks and editing style from what works for his short-form content to his new product to get the attention of a big corporation. Will it work? View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: # Spotify Expands Parter Program for Podcasters View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/50230cc8-4026-49fd-90d1-88c34816df4f/0107_Article_Photo_3.png?t=1767803647) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Spotify expands its partner program / [Spotify](https://creators.spotify.com/features/monetization) A year after introducing its [partner program](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/spotify-courts-creators), Spotify is expanding eligibility for monetization. Creators must now have at least three published episodes (all time), as well as 1,000 audience members and 2,000 hours consumed in the last 30 days. Previously, the requirement was 12 episodes, 2,000 listeners, and 10,000 hours in the last 30 days. **The why:** In a virtual press conference yesterday, Spotify’s VP of Podcast and Video, [Roman Wasenmüller](https://www.linkedin.com/in/roman-wasenm%C3%BCller-5bb87164/?originalSubdomain=de), said that podcast consumption has doubled since the introduction of the partner program. Spotify anticipates that adding more creators to the program will increase podcast output, engaging more audiences. **Big picture: **As Spotify competes with YouTube to be the premiere podcasting platform, it’s rolling out similar features to its competitor—like expanding dynamic ad capabilities and partnering with more distribution platforms. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: # ➕ Community Tab Last Friday, we asked for your New Year’s resolutions. Here’s what some of you said: * “Bake 26 new bakes and share each on a short-form video,” food creator [Kelly Lira](https://www.youtube.com/@KellyLira) said. * “My resolution is to stop waiting to upload a video because I don’t think it’s perfect,” Austin (aka [646 Animations](https://www.youtube.com/@646Animations)) told us. * “Take more time off,” or at least that’s what we think the dozens of OOO replies were trying to tell us. Happy New Year! View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Lifestyle creator Kelsey Darragh](https://www.instagram.com/p/DS2bvTLjdG_/?img_index=4) ends her podcast, _Confidently Insecure,_ after six years. * [Beast Games Season 2](https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/amzn1.dv.gti.956735b5-8685-4df1-a001-f579e52703dd?autoplay=0&ref_=atv_cf_strg_wb) premieres today on Prime Video. * [VC firm Slow Ventures](https://luma.com/4xwveos2) is hosting a creator CEO summit in Los Angeles this month. * [News creator Dylan Page](https://www.tiktok.com/@dylan.page/video/7591980421324360982) is taking a break from TikTok after being demonetized. * [Spotter partners with Comscore](https://ir.comscore.com/news-releases/news-release-details/comscore-launches-daily-program-level-reporting-deduplicated) to give YouTube creators TV-style measurements for advertisers. * [TikTok Shop](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-11-25/tiktok-shop-pushes-into-luxury-retail-with-11-000-handbags) adds luxury brands to its marketplace. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/creator-takeaways-from-ces

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/6fbbf608-91bb-41d1-85b2-6685799d7fd1/0105_Header_No_Sponsor.png?t=1767630133) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning.** Three US-based music creators are attempting to get a visa for their band member in India by reaching 1 million followers on Instagram and TikTok. Darshan, Evan, Zach, and Anthony are [Boy Throb](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9nzYMfmtY7s), a pop quartet that really makes you wonder, “Is this satire?” — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: # What Drove the FaZe Clan Creator Exodus View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/eaad8b8b-aafd-4939-8631-c8df0fbb5992/0105_Article_Photo_1.png?t=1767630155) Caption: (Left to right) Stable Ronaldo, Adapt, Rage, JasonTheWeen, Lacy, Silky, Kayson, Rug, and Apex leave FaZe Clan over contract disputes / [FaZe Clan](https://www.instagram.com/p/DPXh8fYEvU2/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==), [Apex](https://www.instagram.com/p/DCP543RSh-B/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) Over the holidays, nine creators announced their departure from gaming organization FaZe Clan over contract disputes—leaving FaZe’s future uncertain. **Here’s what we know:** * In mid-December, Matt Kalish (co-founder of DraftKings and FaZe investor) launched [HardScope](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/everything-is-tv-now), a creator management company. After $10 million in investments over 18 months, Kalish gave FaZe’s roster the option to either go independent or sign with HardScope. * Unsatisfied with the deal terms, FaZe members Adapt, Stable Ronaldo, JasonTheWeen, Lacy, Kayson, Rage, and Silky decided to leave the organization—[announcing](https://x.com/jasontheween/status/2004311192207237611?s=20) [their](https://x.com/FaZeApex/status/2005047690594484353?s=20) [move](https://x.com/YourRAGEz/status/2004706400321392952?s=20) on X. Apex and Rug left later that week. * Kalish [told ](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-12-26/faze-clan-influencers-exit-over-contract-dispute-with-new-owner?accessToken=eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJzb3VyY2UiOiJTdWJzY3JpYmVyR2lmdGVkQXJ0aWNsZSIsImlhdCI6MTc2Njc3OTU1NCwiZXhwIjoxNzY3Mzg0MzU0LCJhcnRpY2xlSWQiOiJUN1NMRkFLR0lGUEQwMCIsImJjb25uZWN0SWQiOiJGRUIzODlCNUI2ODI0RTY0QjY5MENEODE1RTBDREZGRCJ9.UiPVqxzBD01DUOjWB_qR8--OR-qoMHHO18ty_TXI-Hg)_[Bloomberg](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-12-26/faze-clan-influencers-exit-over-contract-dispute-with-new-owner?accessToken=eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJzb3VyY2UiOiJTdWJzY3JpYmVyR2lmdGVkQXJ0aWNsZSIsImlhdCI6MTc2Njc3OTU1NCwiZXhwIjoxNzY3Mzg0MzU0LCJhcnRpY2xlSWQiOiJUN1NMRkFLR0lGUEQwMCIsImJjb25uZWN0SWQiOiJGRUIzODlCNUI2ODI0RTY0QjY5MENEODE1RTBDREZGRCJ9.UiPVqxzBD01DUOjWB_qR8--OR-qoMHHO18ty_TXI-Hg)_ that FaZe covered a lot of expenses for the creators and suggested they may struggle to get brand deals without the FaZe name behind them. **Going forward:** On a [livestream](https://www.tiktok.com/@lacy/video/7588670230340177165?q=faze%20clan&t=1767593096257), Adapt assured that “nothing is going to change from the viewer’s perspective.” All departed team members will continue to stream together without the support of the organization. **Zoom out:** FaZe Clan started as a creator house in 2010 and grew with an esports team and multimillion-dollar sponsorship deals. It was the first creator business to go public in 2022 at a [billion-dollar valuation](https://www.businessinsider.com/faze-clans-creator-exodus-spotlights-a-key-business-risk-2025-12), but it soon fell to a penny stock amid concerns that the company’s business model (sponsorship with brands) wasn’t stable enough for growth.  As that foundational piece of the business crumbles, the company’s esports division is the only element left unbothered by the departures (since it is 100% owned by [GameSquare](https://www.gamesquare.com/)). In the coming months, we will see the effects of a mass departure—and whether FaZe can rebound from this loss. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: # The Biggest Threat to Instagram Creators, According to its CEO View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/ddb786d1-e11e-4844-9028-e70b91e06a93/0105_Article_Photo_2.png?t=1767630184) Caption: Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri shares his predictions for the platform in 2026 / [Adam Mosseri](https://www.instagram.com/p/DK-kxPwBVhR/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) Last week, Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri posted a [20-slide](https://www.instagram.com/p/DS7pz7-DuZG/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&img_index=1) carousel to his personal account, explaining the challenges creators may face on the platform in 2026. Here’s the gist → **Mosseri explained that AI tools now enable anyone to copy a creator's work**, and AI content will soon be indistinguishable from real footage. “Authenticity is becoming infinitely reproducible,” he said.  In response, demand for real, creator-made content will increase. “The bar is shifting from ‘can you create’ to ‘can you make something that only you can create?’” Mosseri said. **But as AI looks more lifelike, viewer skepticism will increase**, Mosseri said. The default will be for viewers to think most content is fake, then find tells that prove otherwise. To earn viewer trust, Mosseri said Instagram needs to verify authentic content and highlight original creators. It will also start to display more info on who is behind each account. **What creators are saying: **Some see Mosseri’s predictions as a smart read on where content is headed. Others see his post as deflecting responsibility for Instagram’s algorithm and perpetuating AI content. * “Even when we show up, our followers don’t even see our content anymore,” beauty creator [Courtney Adeleye](https://www.instagram.com/courtneyadeleye/) commented. * “Instagram is not a science, it's an application where people can see what they like. But it's about to stop being [that],” photographer [Boris Michaliček](https://www.instagram.com/borievkyphotogallery/) said. * “It’ll become much harder [to build voices online] due to the built-in skepticism you mention,” tech creator [Roberto Nickson](https://www.instagram.com/rpn/) said. “The who is saying, not the what, is definitely the game now.” **Tell us: **With AI blurring the line between what’s real and not, how do you think creators will stand out? **Hit reply** and let us know. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: # Twitch’s Top Streamer Is… View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/304b5167-6bbe-474d-b145-cab93b7ee58e/0105_Article_Photo_3.png?t=1767630207) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: AI-powered VTuber Neuro-sama becomes the most-subscribed streamer on Twitch / [Neuro-sama](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LBEtS-sXqgY) Powered by AI. [Neuro-sama](https://www.twitch.tv/vedal987), a VTuber created by computer programmer [Vedal](https://vedal.ai/) in 2022, has racked up over 160K active subscribers in the last month—over twice the amount of runner-up [Jynxzi](https://www.twitch.tv/jynxzi).  Neuro-sama is currently the [most-subscribed streamer](https://twitchtracker.com/subscribers) on the platform, outranking other creators like Kai Cenat and Hasan Piker. **How it works:** Neuro-sama uses a large language model to interact with viewers, react to videos, and sing—using a separate AI model to play video games. Vedal, who runs two AI VTuber accounts, coded the AI components in Python and hired an artist to illustrate Neuro-sama’s avatar. **Big picture:** As AI content continues to permeate all major platforms, livestreaming remains harder to replicate with AI than short-form video. Could Neuro-sama’s explosion in popularity lead to other programmers following in Vedal’s footsteps? View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: # 👀 Creator Moves * **Niko Omilana** is hiring a [YouTube channel manager and strategist](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2072108-youtube-channel-manager-and-strategist-niko-omilana) to oversee his main channel. * **Woodworking YouTube channel fit+finish** is looking for a part-time [video editor](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2051465-video-editor-fitfinish-fit-finish). * **Night** is hiring a [social content producer](https://jobs.thepublishpress.com/job/2072106-social-content-producer-night-media) to join its comedy podcast team. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Alix Earle](https://www.bevindustry.com/articles/98045-alix-earle-gets-gorgie#:~:text=Energy%20drink%20brand%20GORGIE%20unveiled%20that%20social,joined%20the%20company%20as%20a%20strategic%20investor.) joins Gorgie energy drink as a strategic investor. * [Lifestyle creator Sahil Bloom](https://www.instagram.com/p/DSSrwuBjXWR/) launches a men's skincare line. * [Veritasium creator Derek Muller](https://youtu.be/piHGnG4LsmQ?si=2dse8vYb-Gu9HldG) says he’s slowly stepping away from the YouTube channel. * [Short-form comedy creator Tamir Omari](https://www.twitch.tv/videos/2658650202) launches a Twitch channel. * [Commentary creator D’Angelo Wallace](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lOTmVYwYo6U) returns to YouTube after a year-long hiatus. * [The Bill Simmons podcast](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/digital/bill-simmons-podcast-netflix-live-streaming-debut-january-1236458579/) will premiere as a live show on Netflix next week. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/is-faze-clan-over

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/941a732e-c776-4b5e-aa22-489f7cf89114/S4-Head.png?t=1766194358) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning. **And Happy New Year! We hope you’re feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready for an overly crowded gym experience.  Got any fun New Year’s resolutions? Hit reply and share with us, and Syd will rate how likely she thinks you are to get it done. **Today: **We’re sharing our Publish team’s predictions for the year ahead. Agree with us? Disagree with us? Have your own take to share? You know the drill: Hit reply (since you’re already sending us your resolutions anyway) and let’s hash it out. Time to have some fun. 🔮 — [Hannah Doyle](https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-doyle-51608628/) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/?utm_campaign=and-the-oscars-go-to&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=news.thepublishpress.com) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: ## Hannah’s Prediction: Creator Brand Spend Grows IRL View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/5f73ffa8-c432-4400-a6b5-07bdcf0ca4b2/S4-Events.png?t=1766194596) Caption: Hannah predicts brands will spend more on creator events next year / Illustration by Moy Zhong The very-online creator industry has long-championed the virtues of touching grass, getting offline, and setting up a place for creators to meet their communities face-to-face. If you were at Press Publish NYC in September, you know what I mean. **But in 2026? I predict more dollars to back it up. **That influx of cash is likely coming from a variety of places: sponsorships, direct audience sales, and premium content. In-person events will become a more critical piece of creative businesses in 2026.  **My thinking:** Creators like Sam and Colby and Dude Perfect are using events to level up their work with sponsors. Both Samsung and Hot Topic [told Digiday](https://digiday.com/media/creators-are-standing-up-irl-events-to-soak-up-more-of-brands-marketing-dollars/) they invested more with creators for in-person events because of deeper fan connection, higher ROI, and improved content generation that comes long after the event ends.  **The data is there too:** Brands are increasing event spend significantly ([74% of Fortune 1000s](https://finance.yahoo.com/news/74-fortune-1000-marketers-increase-190000092.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAGhCdO6P9udxdexA5xyeuOQ9rMV6p3Fu7XeMiYy4I1pZ0s3QvbRuKGngAHOQTHsmll1I4XLAVD7NPcLt5T8OfSOV4wvXSl_af3Q8TWca9eM8I5ZE6RlC-WVv-Akm_SKk7GVHYgEVFw65O9Hn6JO1ddWed17mZ5O1cz9KycGBZr5X) upped their experiential budgets in 2025) and creator spend is [growing faster](https://www.newswire.com/news/creators-irl-exclusive-survey-by-the-influencer-marketing-factory-22646903#:~:text=The%20Creators%20IRL%20findings%20underscore,examples%20of%20standout%20creator%20activations.&text=The%20Influencer%20Marketing%20Factory%20is,that%20drives%20real%20business%20outcomes.) than other types of event media. So get ready to pack your bags, slap on a name tag, and come up with a “fun fact” on the spot—events (and the marketing dollars behind them) are going big in 2026. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ## Syd’s Prediction: More Creator-Released Indie Films View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/07a90497-e945-4d6a-a04e-bd75d83abe41/S4-Tickets.png?t=1766194732) Caption: Syd sees creators bringing more indie films to life / Illustration by Moy Zhong If you’ve been following along with us this year, you’ve heard us say that _Hollywood wants what creators have_. [Jake Shane](https://variety.com/2025/tv/news/therapuss-podcast-jake-shane-hulu-comedy-1236570627/) and [Benito Skinner](https://deadline.com/2024/10/benito-skinner-dissociated-making-overcompensating-prime-series-1236157950/) made deals with streaming platforms for comedy shows, while A24 produced horror films by both [Racka Racka](https://www.theringer.com/2023/07/28/movies/talk-to-me-philippou-brothers-rackaracka-youtube) and [Kane Parsons](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/why-the-mlb-invested-in-these-creators-a71b)—just to name a few. **My prediction? **The next year will see us move beyond the traditional Hollywood structure with tons more creators putting out their own feature films, indie style. And it’s happening already, from romantic comedies by [Jonah Feingold](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/amazon-joins-the-youtube-circus-63b5) and [Chalchitra Originals](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/mrbeast-announces-new-companies) to Creator Camp’s slice-of-life [indie](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/now-in-theaters-creators) to [Grace Reiter’s](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/so-what-s-your-take) _The Hunger Games_ parody. These creators are self-financing and self-distributing, using funds from brand deals and YouTube AdSense—not Hollywood studios—to foot the bill.  **As creators divide and conquer, Hollywood is doing the opposite.** Netflix’s $82.7 billion proposed [acquisition](https://variety.com/2025/tv/news/netflix-to-acquire-warner-bros-82-7-billion-deal-1236601034/) of Warner Bros. has made the already-small circle of studios even smaller, potentially leading to shorter theatrical windows and fewer greenlit projects. With millions of views and the good faith of their audiences behind them, we should expect to see many more creators release projects independently—leaving Hollywood to catch up. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ## Colin’s Prediction: Netflix Launches a “Creator Model” for UGC View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/49a8e22a-6b4a-4f5c-97a5-33061cbc331b/S4-Netflix.png?t=1766194800) Caption: Colin thinks Netflix will open up its model to more UGC / Illustration by Moy Zhong Netflix’s bid to acquire Warner Bros. took over my feed at the end of this year, but I couldn’t stop thinking about the quieter moves they were making—**with creators**.  * First, Netflix secured [select podcasts](https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/14/business/media/netflix-spotify-podcast-deal.html) from Spotify, removing the video versions from YouTube.  * Then, Mark Rober’s lightly repackaged hits became a [top 10 show](https://www.instagram.com/p/DRdQbw4krKg/?img_index=1) on Netflix and the No. 1 show for kids.  * More recently, Matty Matheson announced that [season 3](https://www.instagram.com/p/DSDphz2kgSG/) of his YouTube cooking show, _Just a Dash, _would be moving over to Netflix.  Netflix’s bid for Warner Bros. is an attempt to consolidate the "old guard" and some very valuable IP. But their most formidable opponent in TV watch time isn’t the old guard. It’s YouTube, with 13.4% of television watchtime (compared to Netflix’s 8.8%). Netflix can’t buy YouTube, but they can try and emulate its model.  **My prediction for 2026? **I think we’ll see streamers take on a dual-tier approach to creators next year:  * An **"Open Tier"** with looser guidelines for creators who make episodic content. I see a modest revenue split and content largely supporting ad tiers.  * A **"Creator Plus"** tier for more established creators like Jesser, Dude Perfect, and Michelle Khare. Platforms like Netflix could license their libraries of evergreen shows and commission originals just as they did with Rober. Then? YouTube essentially becomes a Netflix incubator.  View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ## Samir’s Prediction: YouTube Forces Creator Ads To Evolve View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/92311bec-572a-45e4-97ab-deed124cda9e/S4-Wheaties.png?t=1766194996) Caption: Samir says creator ads will start to look like athlete endorsement deals / Illustration by Moy Zhong **I’ll come right out with my prediction:** As YouTube continues to be the dominant platform on connected TVs, the creator ad product will evolve _away from host-read integrations_.  **Why? **CTV viewing favors familiarity, brand safety, and long-term relationships—meaning fewer one-off integrations optimized for clicking the link in the description. **That shift will change how brands think about creators. ** **So in 2026, creator advertising will look increasingly like athlete endorsement deals.** Expect more category exclusivity, year-long partnerships, and “presented by” relationships ([TBPN](https://x.com/tbpn) is a good example). We’ll also see creators appear in ads that run across YouTube, especially on TV screens, whether or not those ads live on creators’ own channels as pre-roll and mid-roll inventory.  **As this model scales, there are ripple effects.** If creators are now the creatives, native execution matters…someone has to actually _make_ the ads. That opens the door for creator-led creative agencies. Many creators don’t want to run media companies—they want to make videos and collaborate creatively, not manage teams or publish videos on rigid schedules. The agency model offers a middle ground: Apply creator instincts to YouTube-native ads without having to build and sustain your own show…see Anthpo’s [Pufferfish](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/the-lookalike-contest-creator-launches-a-brand-agency) agency. Two predictions for the price of one. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/what-to-expect-in-2026

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/141993c4-0dca-4553-a19e-fde6c150aab5/S3_Head.png?t=1766186356) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning. **We’re about to unpack some of the early internet’s most viral moments. But as a newsletter _by _creators _for_ creators, who are we to judge without an offering of our own? So, on the last day of the year, we present to you the 11-year-old “[Beats Rant](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D29NFn4A56E)” by Colin and Samir’s short-form editor, Taiga Fukuyama. Were we ever so young? — [Hannah Doyle](https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-doyle-51608628/) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/?utm_campaign=and-the-oscars-go-to&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=news.thepublishpress.com) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: # Tay Zonday, ‘Chocolate Rain’ (2007) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/e3ba3fef-3fe0-4464-99f3-93ba8ae6d04f/S3_Chocolate-Rain.gif?t=1766186369) Caption: Adam Bahner launches his career as Tay Zonday with his 2007 hit 'Chocolate Rain' / [TayZonday](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EwTZ2xpQwpA) “Chocolate rain / Some stay dry and others feel the pain” **Then: **[Adam Bahner](https://www.linkedin.com/in/tayzonday/) posted his [original song](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EwTZ2xpQwpA&list=RDEwTZ2xpQwpA&start_radio=1) about systemic racism under the stage name/alter ego Tay Zonday. Over the course of 18 years, the song gained 141 million views and has been declared by many as a cornerstone video on the platform. “At the time, one person uploading a video and being parodied by thousands of people was a new phenomenon,” Bahner told us via email. “YouTube embraced ‘Chocolate Rain’ as a way to say, ‘This is who we are and why we are a new experience.’” Bahner was among the first 60 creators to join the YouTube Partner Program and monetize his videos. As his channel grew, he continued to post a mix of [original songs](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VdJUg89vugw) and [covers](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f1lbeYSCh7A). Although his YouTube voice work and music videos were in line with his larger goal of working in entertainment, he was othered by the industry. In the years following “Chocolate Rain,” Bahner classified himself (and other large YouTubers at the time) as Hollywood outsiders—they relied on each other for work by collaborating on videos.  **Now:** Bahner works as a voice actor and creator, making the majority of his content on Cameo (where he has over 1,500 five-star reviews). He told us the YouTube of today is a vastly different experience from the platform he came up on. “YouTube used to be full of friction because humankind is naturally full of friction. [...] Viral videos like ‘Chocolate Rain’ happened because human beings had to solve friction instead of algorithms,” Bahner said. “I think we had a better sense of ourselves when we relied on viral videos to reduce friction, instead of algorithms and product design.” **His advice to creators now?** “Being beloved, being accepted unconditionally, and being paid money are three different things. [...] It’s very easy for public attention to blur these needs together,” Bahner said, highlighting the importance of a strong sense of self when having a public-facing career. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: # LonelyGirl15 (2006) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/93cd834e-c4f3-4d27-8a77-5feed07e037c/S3_LonelyGirl.gif?t=1766186386) Caption: The writer of 'LonelyGirl15' unpacks why the web series went viral / [lonelygirl15](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-goXKtd6cPo) “First blog / dorkiness prevails” **Then:** LonelyGirl15—a scripted web series about a girl named Bree vlogging her life while trying to escape a cult—was one of YouTube’s first major hits, heralded as a [new art form](https://nymag.com/arts/tv/features/19376/). Back in 2006, YouTube was a hub for home videos and goofy sketches. An actor (Jessica Lee Rose) pretending to be a regular teen wasn’t a familiar concept. Her diaristic vlogs and writing to fans in the comment section 1) toed the line between reality and scripted and 2) sparked fandom, to the tune of **100K views per video**.** **After the _LA Times_ [revealed](https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2006-sep-13-me-lonelygir13-story.html) LonelyGirl15 was scripted six months into the project, the channel went fully viral. **The creators behind it → **writer Mesh Flinders and plastic surgery intern Miles Beckett, who met at a karaoke bar when they were 25. Attorney Greg Goodfried later joined. **The sense of urgency: **“All of production happened in six weeks. When we had the idea, we thought ‘this has to be done now.’ This platform is going to blow up in the next six months. It’s going to be something completely different, someone else is going to do this,” Flinders told us. They shot in Flinders’ bedroom and put their $1,100 budget on a credit card. * Once LonelyGirl15 was outed as scripted, brand deals from Neutrogena, Hershey's, and MTV rolled in.  * And a _Survivor_ producer funded production that gave the show two more years of runway. Flinders and Beckett quit their jobs to go full-time. Flinders hoped it would lead to directing a feature—but nothing materialized. “Because I wanted to make films, I always saw this as a stepping stone to that—and it really was jarring when it became its own thing,” he said.  Flinders left in 2007, while Beckett and Goodfried launched their media studio, EQAL. The series continued until 2008. **Now: **Beckett [works in](https://x.com/mbeckett) AI software, Rose works [in media](https://www.instagram.com/jessicaphillipps/) in New Zealand, Goodfried [recently became an agent](https://variety.com/2025/tv/news/caa-greg-goodfried-agent-creators-1236595926/) at CAA, and Flinders is a creative director in New York. Flinders told us he never went viral again—and is at peace with it. “It took me like five or 10 years after LonelyGirl to stop trying to go back to that place…And realize that I became a writer because I love to write. It had nothing to do with the audience or attention. It is just a way to be less lonely, express yourself, and be in your imagination.” Flinders now writes novels and screenplays and recently signed with an agent. His biggest lesson?** Fall in love with the process.** “The less you can be focused on the outcome of your work…the more likely you are to engage with people around that work,” he said. “I’m not going to worry about getting millions of views—I’m going to try to come up with something that’s sustainable for me.” View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: # Kelly, ‘Shoes’ (2006) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/32595392-85dd-41a9-8e9d-ed00586932c6/S3_Shoes.gif?t=1766186397) Caption: 'Shoes' star Liam Kyle Sullivan struggled in Hollywood post-YouTube success, but the song continues to foster community / [Liam Kyle Sullivan](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3HjIljJd-o0) “These shoes are 300 dollars / These shoes are 300 dollars / These shoes are 300 f***ing dollars / Let’s get ‘em!” **Then:** When [Liam Kyle Sullivan](https://www.linkedin.com/in/liamkylesullivan/) moved to Los Angeles, there was no creator economy. He was an actor, auditioning for small roles while workshopping his original character Kelly at open mics. “[Shoes](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wCF3ywukQYA&list=RDwCF3ywukQYA&start_radio=1),” the comedy song that would launch Sullivan to viral fame, existed before YouTube did.  In its early days, YouTube was more lawless than today, Sullivan said. His sketches were often reuploaded by dozens of other channels—but at the time, Sullivan was happy to have the exposure. “I didn't think at all about monetization of those views,” Sullivan told us. “There was no model for it.” Even so, his sketches gained millions of views on his own channel—today “Shoes” has 71 million.  The editing skills he picked up from creating his Kelly sketches eventually landed him freelance gigs at Defy Media, Maker Studios (the largest multi-channel network on YouTube until its acquisition in 2014), BuzzFeed, and _The Ellen Show_ before going full-time at **Try Guys**. **Now:** Sullivan’s transition from talent to behind-the-scenes was not without challenge. Before creators had their own industry—and even now in the wake of that shift—many posted online with the hope of converting their filmmaking skillset into a Hollywood career. Sullivanrecalls executives being unsure which box to put him in. “I think the real struggle was saying, ‘I failed,’” Sullivan said. “[I had to gain that] psychological ability to reframe what I was going through.”  But his community is still there. Last summer, Sullivan [performed as Kelly](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hy5zDQNjRQo) in an LA gay club to an audience screaming every word back at him. “I had this whole resurgence or renewal,” Sullivan said. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/youtube-at-20-where-are-they-now

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/63fd9b88-29c1-4440-a17a-db30d552829f/1219_Header_No_Sponsor.png?t=1766160714) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning.** Yesterday, President Donald Trump announced the “Patriot Games,” a four-day athletic competition featuring one man and woman from each US state and territory. Any way you slice it—whether it’s _The Hunger Games_, _Squid Games_, or _Beast Games_—someone’s IP is getting ripped off. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: # YouTube Gains Rights to the Academy Awards View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/73c0262f-03b8-49ce-a0ff-a183d6b3464c/1219_Article_Photo_1__1_.png?t=1766160891) Caption: The Oscars is leaving ABC for YouTube / Illustration by Moy Zhong Starting in 2029, Hollywood’s biggest night will stream exclusively on YouTube—the Oscars are leaving ABC after 50+ years with the network. **Behind the deal:** In a five-year contract, YouTube will gain access to other programming from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, including red carpet coverage and nomination announcements. The livestream will be available to both YouTube TV subscribers in the US and YouTube’s 2 billion global users for free.  The deal [reportedly](https://www.nytimes.com/2025/12/17/business/media/oscars-youtube.html) costs YouTube over $100 million per year (but it’s expected to make roughly $140 million per year from ad sales). In the past, ABC shared a portion of ad sales with The Academy. It’s unclear whether YouTube will do the same. **But this is about more than money. It’s a cultural milestone**, like YouTube’s acquisition of NFL Sunday Ticket in 2023—and yet another play toward dominating the living room. YouTube CEO Neal Mohan expects the Oscars to increase in viewership (which has dropped steadily since 1998) on its new home. “Partnering with The Academy will inspire a new generation of creativity and film lovers while staying true to the Oscars’ storied legacy,” Mohan said [in a statement](https://blog.youtube/news-and-events/hollywoods-biggest-night-is-coming-to-youtube/). **So what are traditional media creatives saying?** * “About time honestly. A large part of the decline in viewership was due to accessibility,” filmmaker David Kirkman [commented](https://www.instagram.com/p/DSX74K2kqni/?hl=en) on Instagram. * “This is bad for writers who rely on broadcast residuals, so I'm fundamentally against it, but this seems fine/good for regular consumers. Great for movies,” TV writer and WGA member Jamie Lynn Harris said [on X](https://x.com/JayElHarris/status/2001398745192157560?s=20). **While creator economy natives joke about the transition:** * “Is chat the new Academy?” Smooth Media CEO [Josh Kaplan](https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-kaplan-35029b73/) asked. * “[Mid acceptance speech] I'd also like to thank Nord VPN,” comedy creator Ron Iver posted [on X](https://x.com/ronnui_/status/2001386281373147406?s=20). **Looking ahead:** The Academy Awards are regarded as one of the most important nights on television, on par with the Super Bowl. We want to know: How will creators be incorporated into the huge cultural moment? **Hit reply** and let us know your thoughts. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: # Why This Travel Creator Is Doubling Down on Long-Form View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/ca4a7582-7280-4c90-9507-b10f756b297d/1219_Article_Photo_2.png?t=1766160818) Caption: Documentary creator Peter Santenello (left) is releasing a book (right) outlining his travels across America / Photography courtesy of Peter Santenello For many creators, short-form video is all about discovery (and brand deals). But travel creator [Peter Santenello](https://www.youtube.com/@PeterSantenello) is taking the road less traveled—short-form won’t be a meaningful part of his video strategy rolling out a new product. **Context: **Santenello has built a following of over 4 million on YouTube. He’s spent the last six years documenting life across America, spotlighting places like [Appalachia](https://youtu.be/h9lSZlDJAC0?si=gTBglUHG9xzNwM7B) and [El Paso](https://youtu.be/kYvbGGN-Zcw?si=8bR3vSPInRECTCrs).  He’s about to release his first book, _[Your Fellow Americans](https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Your-Fellow-Americans/Peter-Santenello/9781668214343)_, next August, and he told us short-form _won’t_ be a big part of promoting it. “Sometimes we go deeper into issues that need full context, and to do Shorts you have to outsource it, and check their work,” Santenello told us. “As a lean team [of two], we have to ask ‘how much more do you want to add?’ and what we have is working really well.” **His strategy →** leaning into long-form. Santenello’s viewership is 80% on TVs, and Gen X is one of his fastest-growing audiences. AdSense makes up the majority of his revenue, followed by brand deals and subscriptions. “I want to be able to understand the facets of a society, and they’re longer videos—they’re not quick edits,” Santenello said. “We’ve developed an audience that knows what they’re getting in that respect.” **The plan for 2026: **Dive into more US cities and deepen audience engagement. One of those ways is through postcards, which he writes and sends to his top tier members from every city he visits. “These little things aren’t much of a lift but they add to it,” Santenello said.  View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: # The Publish Press: Wrapped View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/93d1a3bd-b36e-4f09-82cc-13f87a9c184d/1219_Article_Photo_S3.gif?t=1766160836) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: Thank you for pressing publish with us / Illustration by Moy Zhong In the spirit of recap season, we’re sharing our top metrics from a full year of sending newsletters each week: * If you read every word of every send (we see you), you read **163K words **this year. That’s the equivalent of Bram Stoker’s _Dracula_. * Our subscribership could fit nicely into Syd’s college town, Athens, GA. But a few thousand of you will need bunk beds. * The most read edition? Our [exploration](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/how-youtube-age-verification-could-harm-creators-0d0dfc53bb72babd) into **YouTube’s age verification policy**, with a 5% higher-than-average open rate. * Our biggest growth month was April, which happens to be both Syd and Hannah’s birthday month. Happy birthday to us! We’re so grateful to everyone who clicked, read, shared, and commented this year. Thank you for sticking with us, and we’re excited for you to see what we’ve got cooking for next year. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [TikTok](https://www.theverge.com/news/847858/tiktok-sale-deal-memo-january-close) finalizes a deal with the US to sell part of its business to a US investor group. * An inside look at the tools and workflow we use to run [The Publish Press](https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/84e838bc-deeb-469f-90c0-329d8efba586?draft=true).* * [Kinigra Deon](https://www.thewrap.com/media-platforms/tv/kinigra-deon-speed-tubi-series/) is launching a scripted show on Tubi in partnership with Spotter. * [Culture commentary creator Hunter Harris](https://hunterharris.substack.com/p/my-shift-in-the-pitt-starts-now) is co-hosting HBO Max’s _The Pitt_ companion podcast. * [Jacksepticeye](http://youtube.com/post/UgkxyYWe4J5CeLo9D94ht2LFSiswJItCXDks?si=-d4t3L5hM-mc_ELd) is producing an indie horror film. * [Netflix and Barstool](https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6896916/2025/12/17/netflix-pardon-my-take-podcast-deals/) announce a multi-year exclusive partnership. * [Tribeca Film Festival](https://www.tribecafilm.com/festival/submissions) opens its film submissions to creators. _*This is sponsored content_ View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: # **⛄** Thank You for Pressing Publish _The content we’re looking forward to reading, watching, and listening to before the holidays._ * **Read:** _New York_ film critic Bilge Ebiri interviews Ron Howard and the team behind the 2000 movie _How The Grinch Stole Christmas_ on [how the film was made](https://www.vulture.com/article/how-the-grinch-stole-christmas-oral-history.html). * **Watch:** In a parody on Jubilee’s trusted “lineup” format, [Bunch of Friends](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AK_hy3YDscw&t=83s) try to figure out who among them is secretly Santa Claus. * **Listen:** If you need a new earworm for the holidays, Broadway Brass Band has you covered with their rendition of “[Hanukkah in Santa Monica](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1TGjbOFJoPs&list=RD1TGjbOFJoPs&start_radio=1).” View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/and-the-oscars-go-to

View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/5603e08b-dbae-4413-84f1-4eadc508cfb8/1217_Header_No_Sponsor.png?t=1765990417) Follow image link: (https://news.thepublishpress.com/) Caption: **Good morning. **Merriam-Webster’s 2025 word of the year? “[Slop](https://www.merriam-webster.com/wordplay/word-of-the-year).” It’s defined as “digital content of low quality that is produced usually in quantity by means of artificial intelligence.” With Dictionary.com picking “six seven” and Oxford picking “rage bait” as word of the year, it’s truly the battle of the brainrot. — [Hannah Doyle](https://twitter.com/hannahedoyle) & [Syd Cohen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/syd-cohen-ba2276172/) View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: # Every Platform Is Coming for Your TV View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/1b95e4ad-b6d4-49bd-ba3e-3999b947311b/1217_Article_Photo_1.png?t=1765990766) Caption: Platforms announce a push towards TV, including Instagram adapting Reels for the horizontal screen / [Instagram](https://about.instagram.com/blog/announcements/instagram-tv-app) From YouTube’s TV app makeover to Netflix’s podcast play, it feels like every platform is trying to stake its claim in your living room.  Here’s what to know about the industry-wide play for television watchtime: * **Instagram** is launching a [Reels app](https://variety.com/2025/digital/news/instagram-for-tv-reels-videos-1236609143/) for TV, bringing vertical videos to a horizontal format. The app highlights user profiles and videos, mimicking YouTube’s look and feel. It’s currently only available in the US on Amazon Fire TVs. * **Pinterest **is set to [acquire](https://newsroom.pinterest.com/news/pinterest-tvscientific/) tvScientific, a tech company focused on smart TV advertisements. This purchase will help Pinterest more accurately target its 600 million monthly active users on connected TVs, pushing ads tied to users’ pinned products across platforms. * **LG** updated all smart TVs to include [Microsoft Copilot](https://mashable.com/article/lg-forces-copilot-smart-tvs-cannot-delete) as an AI assistant, with no option for users to remove the app. LG announced that all future models will be equipped with the Copilot AI-powered search. **What’s behind the platform pivot to televisions?**  **First: **Connected TV ad spend is growing at a [faster rate](https://www.iab.com/news/ctv-rebounds-to-double-digit-growth-in-2024/) than social video ad spend, according to a recent IAB report. **Second: **YouTube Shorts viewership [is increasing](https://www.emarketer.com/content/youtube-bets-big-on-tv-shorts) among TV viewers. And creators are taking notice. Smooth Media creator partnerships manager [Ben Weiss](https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamincweiss/) told us creators Smooth represents have noted their Shorts viewership is increasing on TV as well. “It doesn't feel intuitive to us that short-form content would be consumed on TVs,” Weiss said. “But since it is, all short-form players would be smart to have the most native possible experiences for their users to consume content on TV.” View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: # How Much Money a White Noise Video Makes View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/d2d226fc-6898-42cb-b9bd-20478f7102b4/1217_Article_Photo_2.png?t=1765990923) Caption: Hank Green creates a white noise channel, Zonderia, where all revenue will go towards nonprofit organizations / [vlogbrothers](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GjUIAufigz4) Ever wondered how your favorite lofi beats, ASMR, and white noise YouTube channels earn revenue without mid-roll ads? Hank Green gave a peek under the hood, [showing](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GjUIAufigz4) the analytics of his 12-hour [white noise video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dv2XyqC-EQ4) that gained 555K views over the course of eight months. **Here’s the breakdown** → * The video earned $10,293, according to Green’s YouTube Studio. * Only 13% ($1,374) came from ad revenue on the pre-roll ad.  * The majority of revenue ($8,832) came from YouTube Premium subscriptions. When Premium subscribers watch videos, a portion of their subscription fee is divided up between the channels they watch, proportional to watch time.  **Zoom out:** Many YouTube channels that upload ambient content forgo mid-roll ads (and the [resulting AdSense earnings](https://www.youtube.com/shorts/QhucLl0j6Xo)) to maintain a cohesive viewing experience. Green followed this formula, placing only a single pre-roll ad in the beginning of the video.  The experiment is a part of Green’s new white noise channel, [Zonderia](https://www.youtube.com/@Zonderia). He’s donating revenue from the channel to nonprofit organizations like [Partners in Health](https://act.pih.org/3x-match?&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=partners%20in%20health&utm_content=USAID_WHO&utm_campaign=DELVE_Acquisition&ms=pdgg&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=10046635147&gbraid=0AAAAADpEDnSxN4ynmIzlpcn37VDwnNnko&gclid=Cj0KCQiAo4TKBhDRARIsAGW29bfp7_5U1QErrNsGm1a_kg2Z0aCKejL0ww1L57jJwrzcHaLGRbLAVFAaAlVFEALw_wcB), which provides healthcare to underserved communities. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: # DraftKings Co-Founder Launches Creator Media Platform View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/19ca0217-bca0-4a5e-8667-d337e1adb3c9/1217_Article_Photo_3.png?t=1765990987) Follow image link: (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://get.store/creators?pk_campaign%3DCreatorsAW2025%26pk_source%3DCreatorNewsletters%26pk_medium%3DThePublishPress2%26pk_keyword%3D25Jun25%26pk_content%3DPrimarySNewsletter&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1750692573309070&usg=AOvVaw2LikiP_vh9EZu6iNESLUpZ) Caption: HardScope supports creators for consulting, brand partnerships, and scaling / [HardScope](https://hardscope.com/) DraftKings cofounder [Matt Kalish](https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt--kalish/) just launched [HardScope](https://hardscope.com/), a media company that partners with creators to provide “c-suite” consulting services and strategy, [match creators](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/hards-cope_creators-command-70-of-gen-z-attention-activity-7406751761157464064-maJN?utm_source=social_share_send&utm_medium=member_desktop_web&rcm=ACoAAAW0s2IB0S0fJXy2ABVl5QgP-_YRYqsfhBU) with brands, and offer production support to scale creator content. So far, HardScope has partnered with gaming creators like JasonTheWeen and Stable Ronaldo to support livestream production. **Worth noting: **HardScope helped FaZe Clan relaunch and spin off its esports business into FaZe Holdings last year. Kalish invested $11 million in the now-separate FaZe Media and has 49% ownership. **Big picture: **Sports betting companies including Stake, FanDuel, and DraftKings are prominent ad partners among streaming creators and comedians. TBPN creator Jordi Hays [recently called](https://x.com/jordihays/status/2000656960363049349?s=20) gambling sponsorships the “UBI (universal basic income) for people that are funny online.” Could businesses like HardScope help more creators in these niches grow beyond one-off deals into more sustainable businesses? View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7f8960ea-8852-407e-9156-52cb00e06e36/0623_Divider_B.png) Caption: # 🔥 Press Worthy * [Jesser](https://www.hulu.com/series/fea0e8cd-0768-4897-ae14-8cff29a7a76b?dl=false) releases a series of YouTube videos on Hulu. * _[My Favorite Murder ](https://deadline.com/2025/12/my-favorite-murder-the-breakfast-club-netflix-iheartmedia-1236649524/)_[and](https://deadline.com/2025/12/my-favorite-murder-the-breakfast-club-netflix-iheartmedia-1236649524/)_[ The Breakfast Club](https://deadline.com/2025/12/my-favorite-murder-the-breakfast-club-netflix-iheartmedia-1236649524/)__ _podcasts are coming to Netflix_._ * [Former pro skateboarder and](https://www.youtube.com/@robdyrdek/videos)_[ Ridiculousness ](https://www.youtube.com/@robdyrdek/videos)_[host Rob Dyrdek](https://www.youtube.com/@robdyrdek/videos)_ _launches a YouTube channel. * [Kajabi](https://www.parafin.com/blog/parafin-partners-with-kajabi-to-launch-kajabi-capital#:~:text=Kajabi%20Capital%20addresses%20this%20gap,page%20within%20their%20Kajabi%20dashboard.) is offering creators financing options with Kajabi Capital. * [YouTube](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/youtube-create/id6476327393) launches a free mobile editing app, YouTube Create. * [Smosh is releasing a livestream parody](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UelN67HA7Gw) of a hospital drama, _Smosh Hospital_. View image: (https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/a1cc932b-0769-4a4f-87e2-678b46b62e66/0623_Divider_C.png) Caption: ——— You are reading a plain text version of this post. For the best experience, copy and paste this link in your browser to view the post online: https://news.thepublishpress.com/p/everything-is-tv-now

---------- View image: (https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.7uLHOpdU78aee-q5U5h5saDBzVwdwP7FMBckb7yIIC390vQwj0tOZ4Py1jiEmeJEq1U-FGlluR1e-LWnCrZNFJMbyzD7EdhDHNDmGnPsUDWh-7Z0YJE-E9loe7bY3ghszlH_TPHoo7DU7L1LG4ArA_bwwoFeRZaWaUssQArjXPzZFYVkcqWVG4aeN1WoDRL9Ej4Kx0HtLqttrznVHtsWBEL_A0-6Tfxt39tVzfHMOEU/4mi/NO9SLaZAS6m8WfGNSdHRkQ/t0/h001.JQDZBvIlkNBnEf4f5PIVACzhQHHWC5ZEYaIraMIvGcA Follow image link: (https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.OgllEJ3JCgjyk5BP-YcKPRLZooI2SzJo6zbbkghaCZlviesHQpP3v_7ZktEbheP6/4mi/NO9SLaZAS6m8WfGNSdHRkQ/t1/h001.8kz3fetDGTYfSmUpzbdw7tGplQQw06mPU_mQboBXM2A Caption: ----------Hey, it’s Colin and Samir—thanks for signing up for [The Publish Press](https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.TuiIYriZRauQSiAAz10l6B5vflrqEqYav1saAyNQu8Ja35HJlhATWv_9YSeHaXGF/4mi/NO9SLaZAS6m8WfGNSdHRkQ/t2/h001.PVk42cOZKvaNnjWMYtVTu008ksSTekdfb6FIcyJaGFc Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, we'll be in your inbox breaking down the business of creators. To make sure you see our newsletters and they don’t end up in spam, **hit reply** **to this email**. Say anything, say nothing. Up to you. P.S. Here’s what we’ve been up to lately: * We hosted our biggest event yet, [Press Publish NYC](https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.TuiIYriZRauQSiAAz10l6B5vflrqEqYav1saAyNQu8JvcWZYDaz77j0VDMWbAli_1O2eipJHplQgv5ww1NPhkq4mWG3z5KeUAuwckvl2oKE/4mi/NO9SLaZAS6m8WfGNSdHRkQ/t3/h001.8AUJZnK4PHmU2zhrqFDIG554U7Len2qhS0A2QmQA0GI To vote on what city we should bring Press Publish to next, fill out [this survey](https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.TuiIYriZRauQSiAAz10l6B5vflrqEqYav1saAyNQu8IoXqoUCMI6fRI1_oqfJg58iM_UsRBHngxCMKgJ-mbenPBnDtsVd-Tp3s_zgI097ZUQ-fJkGiqSIPK2hWFbsViT/4mi/NO9SLaZAS6m8WfGNSdHRkQ/t4/h001.KLBPH3snOPEuG50M734VbKYMFa_qgGDSqazenrvvTpM * We stocked our merch store with [fresh designs](https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.tvjc6-SpTRonSzw1p_axqvIH4u9MlUdv4AmSlxv0WC7r94DbZW2Fi8SJKpRUlqYGs9F3F37_4GsbWCFwMLncfQ/4mi/NO9SLaZAS6m8WfGNSdHRkQ/t5/h001._iZnPh8GQ-Lfg_6rn4RHXsNWr9cvdbbmhqlLfPkFrk8 * We’re dropping the latest creator news [on Instagram](https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.OgllEJ3JCgjyk5BP-YcKPf7ESQCU6GtADYWH9KTxOpuQyKWPsV2MmERrFaS_TafDa_9xZAvvS586bvAvhE7vOA/4mi/NO9SLaZAS6m8WfGNSdHRkQ/t6/h001.yK9FDiXDxLRTujv7q7MxuU-Yni1JzvllKCN9bGEZJnk Thanks again, and welcome to The Publish Press.

Creators react to Warner’s partnership with Suno  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ 15 Dec   | Read Online ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.TuiIYriZRauQSiAAz10l6B5vflrqEqYav1saAyNQu8LwJtIH4RV9kcBX-y6Rc53lhMA3zAOe8RPYOU-XR5tyY3lvWe0zvgnr092i2pTAWWH81zRt1f-LAZBTBhl7SLmpLhfgrKjRypazIETuFwmiWEDDmEk3ewY2fxFi6XgEj_PcfhanwF1hGWvvk6fjj_GeUJOOL86OSxcLoeq_AGZ-WU-_ZpTZTVYwdmIQGxXF7SG_de0wIt9G13nLG0sPqIkCMEcirExDAD8YnPhlU26TDLGFp5Bhmo1yN7vynuS1-RVL3ti8gKVjZFdh6vpdULi_2K-Ao3PSAhSVNycKMbjZnB2ib1TUKbgZLfXG66_3rxVT5l5G7q93WMwZNF70RabKa-VewhOeN3W-_YGYv56b_JKT4Fz7rV6eBa-6Wnxtow0cjkFXRdeZwgWb6YBg9_VOmL2D180LJIYPj0-_YS4XyaFZqtQogmA3kx_WkA6KwKUpmN6aaU-49EfwjsI6FQyrPaHTX2k4K4nOEPSxUIB5gOfDeh0c9BpyBzJGN9NmdFp8gbIqk6Masf0x9yIVuCknbRBzi_8LFihBTsZTWoJZxVEakw_bgjzQf7DUkylWfOdves6jw_v8MJz9gweRdzOCHq2CaBh6gJSgcX74cZGCJL_VTilNa7P-LMX7GQXdJtwBNLYqB1P1qY7URdipd04O6EGZ95ehlTaJwQyUJP83Psqmy3FTAOhYculpAshEDMu748-O3pcp0F6FNbqkq4XwDZa_WXpRtLnPZMt1Xa0mIZvyf7KFlTIENDsLeNIsKc_nfXAcrKoGQH2p_2xXM8yusQviCW1f4jc8uOoa5hGJUeLHPOP8V3sECmBLsTQWwGo/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h0/h001.o0qwy9ssJXbbbcoaUH4fCbXoEuMNMqnxH1RlskgQHNE ) ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.TuiIYriZRauQSiAAz10l6B5vflrqEqYav1saAyNQu8KOdsIE4Ylbr82QjGl3KS2vgEu7tC7_kWxJXjNHyLYB6Y3KDmdYBuBpGgQQq_RcrXsd2X2TNGhFoNa21bysW2TIKZx-IG97ynJ8A8VDXeTBSxwwaRkrqFqDL4vJYVz7v6pjyKIsuxQGlr-BpyIVemNyZki_bD6J_SFbD1fuldo9JdXpqa9vQJAmdSug4pcC2__mhcv24EfERQQq_e5k_0AjiY9LaBu4Zg6eJ6wyKUotvvgPJIQzSp5lhDlyCVqrJQZ2gEDW_wxiAk_aryQioHnDAGJyYl_tHRgM1L7Xv6VM5-6QRvY64KLftay0TlzA9FA5Rs2lCtwFi7haZLhx6YQw9Ag9Ewy6xsQQWB1PTkG1NGhTHUXjRpKbgFUKEx3HmacUyNsoGH4QPJ4JYMIoR2emQcFwDOMkFxGegZpUdyKoc9SvIEYmKb5AJKQE-JusoyzS5qeC2RxuEMydKKZ42M84xFL2S6aO3FAKjil_A9F6UsGf0ItEYQtZKA7O8It-mZtTRx84h1keDLVKu692Gt2RYvsGIW5dfH-yNfV5gEKOqYkpYSnWiEN2TQ7plq0KzNKtp6aX3SFYomGEbh_ESJEWyYETbUAvYFXr6nE-hZHvt_wXqB091VwC9nDX8sG5yZKtM__P4Kz9HxaN9Sek4-h6NuiIM8DiGcZCZGhTGmpPYwlnDMyiEZh1jlw1O5gQ1fhzahUJCHylTjNT61A9E-jre4LkVbaKYwILlqen7eYf0ZLxB5NlKDzg9OnLx472os0Z9JPEqIFDagltwJ-KjyZE/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h1/h001.H49dkpKs1VJIAOz1tsG1j3H4F6QJ2KL3yNDI0fl4sg8 ) *Good morning.* After a two-year hiatus, gaming streamer Turner “Tfue” Tenney has returned ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.OgllEJ3JCgjyk5BP-YcKPZ5wHu_R3jL7CDeUY9KFSIXguQWrKE3B1gSsu1ht954Hk25_FKY_hIyuDWProkJOb9-sT2aGdwNMZCTngUZm_MYai4htyK3xNJEec-hcMZ8ZCmPpFkWNMlLTNraTGBX6WgnOb02ezb_xJnSQPUL0wHLsCnYtntarCqh-IYgCB7DxWrbCGHmD1HgACia01aKo2lBAi5LikadavTDhGnEUrSNZiGevIE4rdAKuFzo4aX6LmCxRA48sRLGjvB__NKzjHA/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h2/h001.g6Cx1r0mdfbwUsyBgy2DS-hInref6wtIps1excwE8mM ) to Twitch, giving his 11.3 million followers over 15 new hours of content to enjoy. How does the saying go? It’s too good to be tfue? — Hannah Doyle ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.XrcKB57sLSVpHzSkQonWPd8dlTD1eQdM5jawiwAdOO2pDF5YzxKcFB-vJGZcPy3vmVP29Kufk1wKZ1CgDl6dFEfmqNxf48Edzc1815SkR-rZOVXc96Wie9zvP3DI7seQhOEgMVKM6p3H7BJQXERvFIdgog9Atuy-ojVRvR63aCYgSfeSCrf8ZnauRPJV4qyaz32YYl3nuEwxAQ-8hVCTnCE2HwnWQJTEZI2TpMbRriAmA586iPECd3za5NDRquRK/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h3/h001.MjicSooOmrzxWON4b_RvvteRxjuxA08ktHD71thHUcg ) & Syd Cohen ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.OgllEJ3JCgjyk5BP-YcKPQ8UON-m0yIFhIh0PD-z_s5e9hcbvATE6RbgxZbprBK49itFn_M-VcKE3LovtLoGWJOhyOaIcMpdhsAPKwEQQXGM_7cmsmab5zX0n-Rgj4eRRg5mK8IotCc_d682UfBNG9VHpmswSgZTsA8SvRZ8MX425eqDKInXA6HbvTODVfxH1FL0sqedrCVCPFSS8nGI7dvLLV-2Rv4Tt8_eqtrimOZoVxwYU0WRWNMUs95lUi-vf_agb277OkuSbzdIiDVZcg/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h4/h001.DQyn7riPXhw9074ZCzx2dsalPYAFhvsVfMp9NkgvRnk ) *************************************** Creators Brace for a Future of AI Music *************************************** Artists and creators Kato On The Track (left) and Elijah Johnston (right) comment on music labels partnering with AI tools / Kato On The Track ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.OgllEJ3JCgjyk5BP-YcKPbltqKLj0lAdZ-TIo2IyFw4nHWr6BpyscWW51OJbWVSEelf1Zo2M9YMYzIRq48YDuEkE-MafSRhVH5Rgwuzfs94EiM7xcRU4j7U6PSRge0BzEb-OvGwPKDjbVl3znWEAaP-mE7GzVrxFcIHbkhICTxv3ahaNa1iYorPrOtSsHnwW46PuRagrrFddSc7pbCrTrMHdLT_MAu_vPMqGimmYVu7P-h9tNySAvdIild56Ki-X/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h5/h001.ouWbA9JLpdSfEUbLlF-JwlBRn66xNZEBK-DJJijKy3k ) , Elijah Johnston ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.OgllEJ3JCgjyk5BP-YcKPf7ESQCU6GtADYWH9KTxOpv0h0b_YHyuAcpSgspqFngQjTI0qwbES5g7aBoLoQy-BdtDPW-1ofzxcyYBr8H3XnNKTNvH-T5A_HL4dZoE_vWtr5f4YX3sni_I7o43RpoQ1Oq_Ga1nfZ6Rz72nA4LWoOVXSKRQ8v8s9gO7go724O8TPgO9UWNSADrNXEvgpZ6N6A/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h6/h001._hg5LFTD0PcfJarGUtHseTinU4XNTeh4A6aqaEHLEwA ) Warner Music Group recently signed a licensing deal ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.OgllEJ3JCgjyk5BP-YcKPWn2JSlzM5VFuoJqdfMZN8tTzp7v3moF7DyawGj6b5M8z_Z5mX7oC99ROey2vP36M1cflia2AJZ5qXCucr4X1SZB93KhkEhjNFa-AnsiADrPkrws5Npew5y9J5HQqfPtzyIQc5CVowngJ_FFKN923oUUdIBwD5IVgaEJS6k6lFJ5xFD0bp0kMtiDAix_G9GKuUAMN69JQ7lcwb5GN3FqERdZ4gACrJr6fFQl7K7Uo_TzMvx-I_5Rdpx3QVsfT0YcqUi7LF3nNl_kjqKRa4azfkp_IdX-r1s6mubNNexOjN8nrdXg4qXv_SZYDDRd7Bpv2Q/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h7/h001.PDkmrSma7P6SPy8A0NOeuNpQgnfdNCHCdMCnErTKPbU ) with Suno, an AI music platform ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.Lh86k5z0NOXLlmg4xEmTeQx1qUN5Ia6036uT55VvqBMk1HM7IdmTQ-89rSspd2hgbviypUT9MlIrqqTWSN5JyXA_Dejl9an04X2WNaTT4JBJY2FATMojiBZfPHb9YjXOkrt3nzHRELpiNwuxA4GxImA6oRDaDAmGSqKzCC7pJvsNI-Yr42s2D04s0TfyL6FBQPE6DFq3j-054KqIBa0hEYAt8UPV7zbb22FxAO_Hc79wXXArtrvcq02yordNihEadkfWkqwSDZ1oetIPn1W4UOiSfPymTt0XvzCMo9rkykTq7wj-NRI8LeP5zqPRa239LaWcfGrCwz0_bUb6GUtjWNm8szY10y9pd8otYlrU374VlYPOGfNcFCGQOFX7gMrMBdkh90u_nxsUmfjQRXjcwhd5-p-9SiSQ_RD1jBiPXKYs6DHOb8Bp89V7nkMzJX-rw28QsSBGqsxEvnMqYqMcdw4Baj1MGotFO50IKaKJjhpjATezYiOM0xYk5gCgXdYDmeaxv1BLIG4SsI_QotzhdxQUG7_Dn5O0m-C5QdWFTR0i6Zle3Rd3NAB5U8tCYRAr/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h8/h001.uWnsjSn9II99iwnczPpengGTYDHooVhlj7KRR1qYZUk ) where users make songs via text prompts. Users reportedly generate 7 million new songs per day ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.OgllEJ3JCgjyk5BP-YcKPWrR3NWyZB2ZWqNy5uZqWQj3LC_5geXE4BS5YRY6Ahz_VN9RyzPnRF0VMgFtlP8AgQSjKV7ytQWoPqA_P6STeCZtWQePfyToiYEcMlEU7IWBLW96ET8OpvmPK-veCFDB9CAvItIp9o7U3JXe9cJMJ3qrv6M5ueaqwbamk1-ynVGQGWBEelkozOlwqiNbn2-0-shkmGJc2fv-z0gksH3SYW1On-p_mrTlnDf_IL_mT04bu7C6qRrHnS9DLzNZM98jJIdsITaIL5sv_Mg-nIrpeSL1VsisPGInuTrir9nrX9SDQN8HWbi7OJV65-ajIFwVeg/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h9/h001.ntdZiAkUEKHJ5-M29ESc3r0D7bFm1VaZl4cBCDwe3W0 ) on the platform (the equivalent of Spotify’s entire catalog every two weeks). *Zoom in:* The deal allows Suno users to use the voices, likenesses, and compositions of WMG artists who opt into the program. WMG, which owns labels representing musicians such as Charli xcx and Dua Lipa, said that artists have “full control” over how their likeness and music are used, but didn’t specify how. The news has sparked contention among music creators: to embrace AI’s infiltration into the art form, or fight against it? The reality for artists, from DJs to singer-songwriters, is more complicated. *What creators are saying →* *Music producer* Kato On The Track ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.8Xma7q90fTwDqdLQwkB_lyLGD8SWx9aFzevzFSX8DlyNaUdalLO-GUMTxajLQ63RT19WuNiaenWiAPKoPNG4kpEkz1AHba6kEmv7ue5hhFYMwf6tGGReMghz1jB9_MbTQ4aCs0b7hTEeRMzuO1zDiyQMMseqGljjzMM8vKeVwN9iIQOFPo5yFCYsu6YZHAWgVhOdPDPyXwphXSaSzZyEtaz1kRUTAt6AIPOkWJCjAbIdt91hBLJaCqsSVpicXfGMgxQoUZETE8Mpj4GOmLyzEtnQwq-hFiabRrHGFtvjE1Nc_KzBLoSPH6iRPJABR_c4/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h10/h001.lkQinDpLnH9HHAD4KlDdYXYqkwSRUFxDKTrG0oFpLOU ) *told us he’s used AI to develop sounds* and expects platforms like Suno to become integrated into digital audio workstations (DAWs) similar to loops and samples. “I’ve found ways to use it creatively that’s still inclusive of my human collaborators, and not a replacement for them,” Kato said. “If you have taste, vision and a passion for making music, AI can be a partner in helping you build your world. I just hope the industry continues to advocate for transparency and artist rights, rather than exploit them.” *Indie rock musician* Elijah Johnston ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.8Xma7q90fTwDqdLQwkB_lyLGD8SWx9aFzevzFSX8Dlzx-qEpnbWWTavcyXJB__HINCM9PJ3KBEBZpTXG7bTZzDnnrKC_yrp5SHXrhLxM1QKYYPe28nusjPX37x4-65fRLBO25adC4sXiwyd-MN2hQsctt-wIBOVvalgdCg3MV0KzEn6eVky-dzKbB2IXr4CoEThMdq_WN0lFn4mhRLTH9Md_myaXjUSFI4KEy1_u7w1H61IX8ZXpQe5VWgccNZ9ZhlqB8sHlfihJZHgWf3IHISSZxkncZH3lNArjAGndfNamLdxNrHJSEr1JfbA6uJ88/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h11/h001.wMH9Uk_lqVPJYqDnGY0MOl-EBF8VIiucrI4OOJyNvuE ) *told us he’s less optimistic about artist rights.* “The people that are making these sorts of decisions—whether it be at Suno, Warner, or the tech companies that are so insistent on putting AI into creative fields—are viewing artists as an inconvenience. They view songs as assets and marketing tools as things that hold shareholder value, and they don't care about the process of being an artist,” Johnston told us. *Worth noting:* WMG is also dropping out of a lawsuit ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.OgllEJ3JCgjyk5BP-YcKPURv5pneSyFGocqTpJMpEvI69xBQMiU87i2Qa6KRzxq0-mPwwrhzC88kpGDhAQdGbaBGLBUJNLYS97CjW40I1NxKDbbgQiR63a-KmwAFBziaqxb5i3AjvrjuqcK45uyzy_A6dG4dXaJVMNp_Nsx_mJ02kl-0zPK1mgLjGNfY1Cm9-yETwtEwFHTcosnkniM8XRfRxCShVA8BKybwjuP_dO_jElwyu9my_RUJ1jSo2K6gY00opHzgl3CYhJzBdYw7qpRKEJ4rlgXm3vG7_Mb-eJAzbROYw4-vuNjIJWIC-bjoHBtF_ECXP2ZC-pEvMl_GU12BU4wtXE_lYpp19kZ2GW8/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h12/h001.frf8koWH0mcpDrVujUQF7YSrMax5ABrxXOM-YetIvow ) against Suno (originally filed with Universal Music Group and Sony) alleging Suno illegally ripped their copyrighted works from YouTube. The deal marks the latest in a series of moves from major music labels to embrace AI. Last month, “ethical” AI music platform KLAY also struck deals ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.OgllEJ3JCgjyk5BP-YcKPdJb3v_6aeyWSeQtB7iyXs1_Dp_DEyXUk621gs00mj_k9aWJbh742W9cCY1uKJF1qYjMyUCFyLYcmTQ55yLeQrJsU_seY7viAi7Xzm5fhOpMGWc5YK5wSb2m7GggkZiPQGJpwnusiQxgIIbykrFULlMVzy2e0DDaAuUCizWtp-OnWneKp8DAVl7bu9l8CAhmKbjt7D9hQk23nWKovxSh8MOe8laLwn_DICzoCGHGOEK9BpuaRjVnKkR8Ez297IEtMc64rBhQwp6pLmlklWrXeOpU8B4l7Nv_BI1yP9Kzai3CMj-2bbJs4qYxH7tZiYJNFJp-IhhEN6LKydgAoL0QcEBMiBT6HcNZ2XblAtO_Pt9I8OsAn0GYZVy0Ulm1RfpOMw/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h13/h001.EZMPQ3ick7Lvb5y1kVI00tgaAnF4t6fp9GORBydaVak ) with UMG, Sony, and WMG. *********************************** Inside Australia’s Social Media Ban *********************************** Australia implements a social media ban for children under the age of 16 / Photography by Ron Lach/ Pexels ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.OgllEJ3JCgjyk5BP-YcKPctH-OCEkVegQnswxAy6fMmLrGTPIaYYQ23uQ_rVK5CBCNUtYgi_4PsEK6a1gguO2LA8yVeNBsAV4OudnYwJeY4BtXWFcOTq_g-K60JpAKcF7vVAZPbw8kbzovwNSAwVp_XU9PV4NZxuCLXmcsvXMo1iUpGCiK373zaV8iXwb-yaE4JacEpjgZC3lK8vxI1ityDg329HThWfgSiDviGSN05qllqM6CLugRbdYD012E5w39sMkPVyAAN7qBNpOcLmtinkYIqlpBcPChOSp4HSWU0/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h14/h001.PmlWa7BX2RxKMsMIcuZXtaGiRQjCh8QkzEf21dUpj_U ) Last Wednesday, the Australian government enforced a social media ban for kids and teens—restricting access to platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Twitch, X, and Reddit. *Behind the law:* The ban came after the success of two social campaigns in Australia, 36 Months ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.OgllEJ3JCgjyk5BP-YcKPYrauLx2PPv9QrVAIBZgub3f63ncLZaFXwpQPUm0VvlMTTMV-uUBrkba6o-HdSOT77mZE_6B6JPijvSmsrcq-Gr1nq9lY4Vx9Yp4sfGpa6-z4lrc5ec5EMFWvTycUX68FY4eFxVyNq4iX1ADUxKjWngZFG_HuHr4z87Iz3WUdD0ZCLGrRC_HZdj72MySCrMiSnmtsIy1t53G9_vMiSap8tCcdc4YL5DM4k1iYNu10cUx/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h15/h001.fgjHR3s8RV8HUz3ypJ48uds029106wxCizYuda_mfLI ) and Let Them Be Kids ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.OgllEJ3JCgjyk5BP-YcKPZHHirF06hU5JGUNuIS8RgiEC-e8cedayqSAYGArwQh0_F8i5FAF8cGL82MfbM2H9Jh-IefeUDf951_uQx4jDPEVq7_VLPyUg5VeLqMv6AV97Y0Z845Mwf-CiRi2vya6dRUiEAjBOKrUXbHb9rl9uwFEuF5KhMvsm-iTW0IZbnE8SUzvzddgWdDj4rclRGJPwYGMW6aw2Aymfn9HcjtEeAyvgcPX5njRpKXZ5D3TzlYOe5AVJSzs0uNV4I2sp4-BAqKqChm2GRmPRe4GJ2uPBEM4S220cBor4sR_VbNSXzGxY-c4nfIfZDIG3kkfpOoH0OR1-3hDvXEHljItzzRRz-I/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h16/h001.nrk44NKnOldOCEKhjSc28CSZlF1m7CbfcG3uuq3Qz78 ) , which aimed to protect children from social media overconsumption and its psychological impacts. Campaign lobbyists helped pass the Online Safety Amendment ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.OgllEJ3JCgjyk5BP-YcKPUWhvBYxJa1djDa7xNftHr_y4f0LN7S9V2bCQm-SKa3_-GIP8NxW0zpqTHbPntWke3Ini9Y1hvmXo4xrlJOCcFGbWtxYoaouexSAOyjoWEZ6JFxZ63UTKclYkSh8OkhT5nvjkyLCJilcjhcEdXyGHRmsdjU4BEyLYkRRgofkiuMaOyC361pUaMcsza6V1s02ejQTrZDFEfXlI78JMUo8EO0jDiDqFEQK1qlZxe9M8ECmnPHol-XeMWdvYm0T_pXQBs8ZbTKBNHiYUyiEARAXLE-TAlD1co4ANer20bNJzj_-OHOcejYJxkqaqZnYtcHtKBnqdGpx2bPoFm75Hc_T7Ks/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h17/h001.fI0kQzTd4TY1cphErEAMhImtHDnmR-mqeyK7AcWrBJk ) last December and gave platforms 12 months notice to enforce age verification. *As a result:* Many kids’ accounts have been removed from platforms, leaving behind thousands of followers ( and even brand deals ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.OgllEJ3JCgjyk5BP-YcKPf7ESQCU6GtADYWH9KTxOpt0wnZnBhwrAJpm91egBiFBREt8CGftMZdnHRijQ_l6vcAdx6S45yLS90iURzsyv6294vctH5Pud9epTZxWlhUB7ZcfuFoWTAytdiGDOwcc77HcnBEAj2pbsYbO-AR_n6aS0WH_PU0snAh_XnieisHy7wwc0KtzjMVf9seq3Eu8AvijuZKbJV4RFt9x5QMyTw0-N3uPGLox04e42bdvc-9uK2YdF5q-zDq1WxSZCmrKLg/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h18/h001.zsWrGT4YW39w-y0eo_O4qM5T3HD19bhCSd5ZR9GXm9U ) )—while others are passing the verification because they look older ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.OgllEJ3JCgjyk5BP-YcKPf7ESQCU6GtADYWH9KTxOps-t9OBfoFDaKcDNGC8Qpy8caJKFG2wHwLqSeSop5WGqB091oKa5iKp-HMGr7jmwwFfStpDgpQSR9PutUZ9T8BwZlMwHymfB2TSc4gaGxKZB2p25Yy6RZGyqnKZvx03tgqOmPhU_nSbcmwtzelaUaAJvI-_-KzYPgB-7-tgH56Qz_iEolXOaZARa-P6xoDdvZjpsxn1yzUVhYsceoYF8R5X9HHEHZYojRFCdsFfgxNwyA/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h19/h001.WSgKBhsrCuE8sv8L7tBA3W4anoWbq-pUZV4tsyvoL-s ). Some are even using VPNs and AI to skirt around the new law. Alternative social platforms like Lemon8, Coverstar, and Yope are gaining users, rising in popularity ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.7uLHOpdU78aee-q5U5h5sbCXSR3EpBK35AhNIVVKtvJKjKdz9O1pfUVBD72nwasDc_Ec0ha1KTW2mq2YREUYq9gqC9yi_5yB252xgiHzeFjSKh84tBu5yJ9_S7wO_Ndh15VIAUH6MvvuNuI888Ddu_pZLABgaq9GuA7d8wSciiEnrLREUANHP93YPiDzOh7GikZxRNTPgFDBSimwF_qPx8x4cLcZBawvo7It0AumF03jnjDTNqudoos8N9KlGw-owyo4j1-VzvVR7BrYur0_5qhW3ujrXNNxR4EROsE2K1zPbd6qB43iBT9acxiAeoeDu42HJPW-7X_AN65cvytxQD5_97gP5toGSvc5uOyaPI1rQyF6YP-zPSorli7p_8nD5rvLVqAWPTjrSHynEeSTrhzJQhtea8C1AnE2p7GW47JhUyDkQYSCKOYUQHUsLpzYskY00zjdN6hMTCIaFMV76g/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h20/h001.iyhDQE4PmZfOCy06QmIQWECZegr_70fo9SSUZe0GDSY ) on the Australian app store charts. *Zoom out:* Proponents of social media bans say removing social media improves mental health ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.OgllEJ3JCgjyk5BP-YcKPYpzoHiQB1KFCxQn1w4ifhs-B80QS45Iwpst90LyT0SkYkfEbPnJum_hX0X32kfZgxX_dLqoEHl07mDV65LI09C0BoVsoz9A_6ZRF7VtHEHrnQQELws_F8EZOI7cYiyUnMAJpBjnuZFMEpK5xazWedXCmb2UEXuICQn5-7TwHZ7u8_LwAYWKkcnhwCWDhLTlM6arUYfQ9qajoVqivBnEQnyL2QJ9bK2wgqQ-fqai-vIS3txReGAPcCoQ4llCQXnq1c1SMsG7r1VBgFmaTxLf2L-VwzrvKmrU-DtYAn-OQNw_/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h21/h001.qehBmV1shAbjJCY4_1OKwWk5C92KlMzfMlaFCxkG2YI ) , but it may have an opposite effect for certain groups. Studies show that LGBTQ+ youth ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.OgllEJ3JCgjyk5BP-YcKPf2FSf2MDoMOzlClSwUH5itFceN-NWhAwqqqdn5FC-myQiQ3fEZRTOn0AStDY-r9-QyhLOtwd1lIZE2hFed2shrTCeVOcN88EUPSp11HTv2P6W4h2YPtyNLr42O8YLnPaPHmPjvmYShUHcTj4XkAMwcYqYkwDOO2ZV0zp8Ivid35ccsOVyU5fjoOaB0dLgHu1n7wxwZS8-sk7ZvKkAVFEB8hnlNjFzvXKPzqSAiN4XL06jeKedrzrG_VboqLsZV5e8paY_K1L5MfKkTUJpbDG4BuIhxZ340ZWcHLoeu2m7fJ/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h22/h001.i0BQcfHtEJe63mxoUhc8YP1UVNP4LvqC2t4zUYNYM_4 ) find “greater peer support” online versus IRL communities, and teens affected say that banning sites like YouTube will infringe on education opportunities. If other countries implement these online safety bans, how would that affect daily internet life around the world? *Hit reply with your thoughts.* *********************************** Dude Perfect’s Expansion, 1 Year In *********************************** ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.OgllEJ3JCgjyk5BP-YcKPYz_ysVRKyDtGiRiA85rkkJ-RnWbCxzVHvYz-ljjYwORwVJDlSIvfGGsZU6-avy8V6buOOvoyXVqfnDR_7t8Uzq_E9r9nMwOiJ_oBiQiPCIht2_aWQVmXx8LXI3JXKjYH0RUrN353w2Qx8UsyFCxCbXn7KflwkmEOaUKdOcoo9X4-B8sMQb8dqo3Zk55TLhvRnzycxxwle56W_cNF04EClUIvkoSVY2CtL79IZeq23mpnjVAQ3I2OD11VFT5rGNOBm_O3yegz_WiTzAX3hA5kfurjsoazKp6h40tOqLuSgxbqbd5XccFMO4K7IrgJ2NiAYPVTQH0LztQ1lk95CJ2iJye9j1IhxXaNWZAQNIzPgYOuoqWtQw0-hwB7cGJUqXZRp6GFRC-9cdjIwS5B5n3H3A47vyUdCHerhEvTekWkY_gQqmLIT7S3QI6xGp1vfnlOnuvnbdx1H0bkrK822KCYgbY0qgqF9coTi3V98KwN8TxTqfzyQF5sU_kWGfSeTA2LxSzbepk_UiTrSX5l3TYBJRVTfPv_lEaEIUn7GUynjZnGioia1ltjA8L6oGZgYHS8Q/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h23/h001.xG-R28Bi-E-t3ZTpcnDo_EQAA4ggPktLgL3Ie42q1h4 ) Within the past year, Dude Perfect has expanded into new ventures including the group's new outdoors channel (left) and podcast (right) / Dude Perfect Outdoors ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.OgllEJ3JCgjyk5BP-YcKPb82zVae2igNuhJXcgr6_I2ZB4Q-2UMK_QTgE9DcS6u-cch8a1EJROfA_6zgM1lVjHBnyVOKHTx7Np9-x0KZwWlX2qwrJfoEhovhIH5aWaX_duIDPxp7mOiH_yyoCwGf5rfXQYxTMirk1WOr2CG0YkbAXATIEfUu0TCgsnhEof0NeUr9NTEwRYVVMTJkF_c5cPRx_2BjOh0v3ux_m1lb0ycoCPS1ZR2iEOtsiUvSZKH3W69xEDsm3yHgXIfyiSqFBA/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h24/h001.qiAOelQeigvd1mC5Df2qOo0VwrQgF_063c3SUda-61c ) , Almost Athletes ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.tvjc6-SpTRonSzw1p_axqukyIXMaXwGj_9iCESKlHDGtj0n_IS-CASx-2y4qJPiKvd6NXenuqKUI0La8gOn7Ig9QPN2ubzeB2igT89SBExHeiJSwuotEK0bWNtcSINGz_NLfRWvhpwUTCLqizu5AL6cJLj7br6BdHlxmJR-_xG963qofnHZaWzkZe9ZmMhtWO5tb4cjHM8QhBaANbjXvtoRdud_D0wWeHKTPnKATAI3PoUcQp2fPY2k6oiVLktzSe1bAVY24L5rbV_rQPIvXLw/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h25/h001.6Xrf84iTnTHUHL4rYhKUSyRYxBjMuqTe5y0i_0U-Zds ) Dude Perfect just launched a new YouTube channel called Dude Perfect Outdoors ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.OgllEJ3JCgjyk5BP-YcKPeQ7GCWcHfEk8YH8_t5rwgPj478WINgWvW9LYyNR3k5kPrfj5iWe4-OtinsAPBaWsYUCfW-Z4aGVe0730BIc3QxulvQIR01IUTpishDfHOjS9NnLjjHJHJp_RfslFhMyRJ_y_stGPVrwoT_bcCti_w9c323MdnhXVQgNDDcgT03r_BSRPvo_nRcCoz8H9Jc-2qNy8hnLMqSEoaIHcDF9BRh8KPbSd6we70MAC6QkINKbmfZNOHKbqDCoKvIrq8K6CVC2aycgk9redUUQNINZaio/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h26/h001.9zBay72g_KjWU9kzxG38DUimMtwvZkNQ855WYg-qmSc ) —its second new channel in 16 years—focusing on hunting, fishing, and camping content. It’s part of the media company’s new growth strategy ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.TuiIYriZRauQSiAAz10l6B5vflrqEqYav1saAyNQu8KIFUZJhqH-KWkF-FRVEwteaqJp2g3X_22MEm7vCQu2joLD0y8ervPgt8casHY4uuxr_XxCUTOwKUv6Qv9e6a6BMcBxukD5TDSHn1hX_Ws_2UzQzvqU1sCtrrrxM2kE3OoazPSzOgI3DralNBgK1a92W8muM_B11GdIfXq78qUx5sd7iL0mAajiD9Dwh-WmvRaQ_mgvdl-_SoP6FELzwenv1fiFmQMyXPi_s4bSYBcimSXXVV1xrXlB1GrEfMzsPAg_D2Akah6NN_B_xOawnRCN8KZGMT1mYP4LOKeDadvXAt4WSpHnhvuMhaL5VxWYcphKEYwQ-oWuDkLw2DqZoWYW4y3lDfNYXwibJ6M5tNclsfAI_gMItHRgPvHRRf8kQg0XSfxX5QBSF9wvtbUdyo7k0QGy2kQCeA_MjZFl-PfLyeAVZ6ZfS2gZwm6dYJioTzSHHpCoJvtSpoXLVXclW6kFHxgKCuq_MOGGzMPq2u-ldfSklmL_cXyoJOtxwu_vTe7SnXhrl550cYIOs5QsT9GpZuGOiK16wvEaneWsYgWHS_ayUjz5hXyMfpmp68fOhKrRJB81Xah0hEP_3k10t0Asqy8PKSXo1zoAWZ2mJgLai-9KUx4EZrFvmUrooorlz7ea_3QMQBTdZaaHYYO5kGTpcFw1Tuc5KR5-nGcZDqjZapdfB166HyXc8wHAnyNyVVjLKZXD9xbocK2LJRe_yBz-jdB_aHMeyyvLnI7vW4YuAV-IsWFRtQWMWLXpfBwEqBD16C8eKgbzeOhYzekAuzCbdtSQextJabr0faywqJkFhlN8lgn5PmJtOvwHcJD8HKE/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h27/h001.bv7F2dARG97FuCbuATi1hxJ4F21R9aBEvCfF9j1B_RA ) , which kicked off last year with $100 million ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.TuiIYriZRauQSiAAz10l6B5vflrqEqYav1saAyNQu8I6FNMMLuQOwMH8fCU9K4F2JlV2wzEDDHmusbsQ9Bdny5-y7mw_6wUUrnNYY5FPb7zfEnGYponsB43aVo0DNc_1TwyyTMgL4rmb0ngeOUV5L3-jt7rweufEp5UYY5m-8mGgTf-mGVHV-HgXaCDnHI_FrOCxuJaJBlwK0cXhXul7EjBXOnye0rk9EkFuj5oSeQjoo7nfQoxVf7iiEtIWv18UU59Xid93ej-S_WZtuuxiAJNhxqv5S41n-4dGCYT9XDGjxvgJ5K-0PRKHlMs0Oz1UDbPVCXBkt667AqNmqixvzT3MFhUWxCQrN5wjUdiJrmU24hnTFkb-AzdCh_ZmjE52WNluQvsen2-m8fxOt8hn__j5CW9JvZxRUcduSvVm8oIQJDrlGbvAQjySpKY8mwY2nUDA5fDyFWZPQGiwrWSH3TvFjWedsDdxJFwHSYrTnVJqjmPekNaRAHhoMyWvMSpAb855ihvjNFF5yefH2Wx4FUhcnV1i1YeR1C3_y4m8j-OgK9F0W53PV3kKXvq-EXtwxDCqgT1PpmqaKjl4xZVONgxVbIm_B7oVQQJvPsi16X_sDjiC2gyDDHtzz-y3eYffBRcv_fZoKUKn-akgm7jUjjBE5cek_Ya0OFiaJpGoJuUH4C_hIdQ3Z4wmv3jypbII5p7niXkyEBdHQrpo3kPF5lOiOLWzG0cxwzYg599D4uYgWBKTcfcwkr_wL5jFCYpUBzmwhUM9plr7LtLJzZaaL4-O5VqDaKDnYzf9U5v2i96QUVIQGNcku4X3xQhfD5CRRgqWeELOeMZ0wYBbzW488PhBVPW9kTDeq3a8zcuGg7EXCudbO86n4A0iIE4mfuf9/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h28/h001.neSEqWrAZyI2UlAqXylIBAOkTuzdbfOYsJYycxsVvtk ) in funding from private investment firm Highmount Capital and hiring its first CEO, Andrew Yaffe. *Here’s a look at DP’s new verticals →* * Its first podcast, Almost Athletes ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.OgllEJ3JCgjyk5BP-YcKPeQ7GCWcHfEk8YH8_t5rwgMUI6NFW3h0ffzW18aV0uBU2z8USE2CUL0pFAYw7yRUA0y_WyuGXQ3qWwvejD9Z95XRUVaOx8bki0TWvkIZDM3rJbjC2lblH-w2l1Q5cr5BnEzRutDLenOw5BgxFNn4PQeVTvlXJYbsfkLkZ1Q_l36xnMUkOdHLordABSWKO3DZTSQ0NoaZE8PTQDIeIOZ3m7cz2LDOXrxOvV7ATSf8gu_C6XgJxyJUhDjNgdH_s_8aAw/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h29/h001.R8HMGo_DevISQ5UOt96RT-8HyDEH1c5RH2swpK_CR2A ) , launched in September. So far, it has amassed over 12 million views and topped the Spotify Sports podcast charts ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.OgllEJ3JCgjyk5BP-YcKPQ8UON-m0yIFhIh0PD-z_s7lRASXRFasheUGmV9GB2kT_e_Md_usKNUUKrtjqeCBfTiZJehpV0OHkZExhr_lPgkk-jg7zzvSXFn-oJKQnY8JGEvbbecgjB12zWEet6IjJcziuYg3-u5npBPuadW55ZM9S-4Ovl1ucepzqAKJHJvkaQx0aTk3z0GNluSAOJhrwEfzW1l8isB0lDclqNlLPHsnz5lRy-L3wAMi4ERjFq7HhgvyiufFKdCex_YFGqdB2YPX2AIhkXOVzyJ4xks8J_pRSo9xUvsio1T849WupIlQ/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h30/h001.plTg7g0HSNsCaLAJqeyPwTCBf9OIF9HhgzM7zUKAUnw ). * DP released its first tour documentary across theaters ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.TxONU83qFaBvLI0duWfon20MqUDURkv7k37NI2hPtFjgZF9rTwfjY_02kN-5QqoywxIVMLae7in2I9a7GpagdeYXqi5oVi4nOfIpiYDK_sYM43qIWBeE-c9B94UAlY09ledVuTy5JlDk7M69TrfLrl860dFPGVUrAR5Jlkq8cM1nqMSIpOrmkcvLOnbybeGiruf5LtyiNDmpjxW6SUqxHQRIM7au7HJlN_R4OXe2LN4/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h31/h001.8M0EJoILl6pDFjRZNA6HMX42FVC0h8TZefk4jQzG_Oo ) in the US. * Its largest tour yet, Squad Games Tour ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.OgllEJ3JCgjyk5BP-YcKPUqJdllih8aZuLpI2wjSQ3Dc8JBxK3prePhvHQrvT0fnt0J8ApIPsIRvLDhq3eUjLrPHvt-YEiAb7t6zQa-kBE9yN7p2U-cWGxmW_zqvr3RTW85gNTG911ubv1KDULx2mLMCUbH2JV_ql2C9kIUrPSAfuNx6aP_bmMIEk3KdfclgeQcTyK3SXWJ-0gQj4OEgjzQlxuFrL387GXrwCc-5EnconbMlIleWY7EFjItQHDvpR5zsE9j6JR1SzOfE7ZohEsnG2CduJu3jsAjQec8XYuE6bk8-B_P6SH72IfgsPwSkxfcOE3T1izkvXm6KftorCaumQdQRO2iFSawhprIErYaxDFp3Wfj4LVkh0dzPPymI/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h32/h001.1tFjb3sbu1KXyOJJxD7lbIcrj16PQAErm66rAO_SAjg ) , is launching in 2026 with a 360-degree arena experience. *Still to come:* Its theme park, Dude Perfect World ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.OgllEJ3JCgjyk5BP-YcKPb82zVae2igNuhJXcgr6_I3w8K_n-HPaK8YryhYCBpy6qb8NbVFfOLACyX0cM_lkTdtloWzF_fchjTI0YqRwomcOliXQmh12XRobrCO7QvZRakU0lWswl7d5HDy65aTBSTzAAK5ogqZRCzRCHgmj2qMCt8NtrvBoaUB3UBXBj4GECHsjldtYINnoMJpcjgkw447pIVJmQFD-0qSQKdfms6MxZYuC5znDgL5FMonLp390wkhN0dJz1DPDxzEhZclG1A/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h33/h001.bA6O1JYbcWqjnWeT8CId1uN-Qq6yv4D86rJt4xnVHUc ) , and growing the DP app. The founders told ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.e33qMxIydJHcqx9U1SscjJo9BBK6r9Fby8GjpU7CaiCv0BZJhGvlcJfCUnjTa9wA3td1Aoe21THRL2tzuN37jzByqFcElIaaspc4bpU7sajfcguKYjiYwfhJWiZpAsevBhndcg694cLQwu0GCALGgbGGeArJAm1fRVR7S4V0P-vASr13uOwONVdjJbA-pKPyFnNl-pgdYLiSmQpVSpWXUysb1s_Mc049DoWo3d-SCI-TzHnOlQNObAOYGf-RjZZSNxQtC_WYg1lMYtcejqxLHg/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h34/h001.GHJf1kCfb3psiGRqYAOV0Q1gUzs9qEn74MCwPQYc_sA ) Colin and Samir they are focused on “stadium, show, shelf”—scaling live experiences, content, and merchandise to grow beyond its founding cast. *************** 👀 Creator Moves *************** * *Colin and Samir* are hiring a story producer ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.B2E1Lx3rilPH-z0PwcVbJvTQdjqQUX3c2C_ZOCxTIi_uuzC7-UOFHTzNFfeebpImcXN53uR0DWQEW3TQuVwztlk3bR48vjGy1neUdyuYuxEdspKYxeqyCEVYI4smdYenbTBZWtph3AeEKoZlzMGjrpfFA-iDGDg7Jvwf3We8Civ4Svyu0yk2bTWU2pLBuF-23q5E0XgJ3hIADGajwJ4eDcKQcTh5I3pQTNTYTLfJ3Yk6bT02jFDx8WEv7_eHjFDLq5MkuXfViiBXGz9Irgfu3bGbsIB9K7hEJmZdc-QBtmgGMiyqtUr2mpExtouEk_wu/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h35/h001.wztqXKbiw7sy4PUmuf_50UFCzf6GHOAbkFewcsJSKsk ) to develop video ideas across platforms. * *Jomboy Media* is looking for a head of content ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.B2E1Lx3rilPH-z0PwcVbJvTQdjqQUX3c2C_ZOCxTIi9cuUcKyUCNzkaUbXBr5Kam6glpc5tukcb_dgfhsKlbfBapaiKJOyz7xoUVtI1GvNZSToMZ7lPu8w53obpRYMBBIcCJupJ4CpNNF6o1xbm3xZNzhqVGYwgcWfpz8JPAunSdLE9cIINk5qXLedduwa3ELSjQKdrHH_8rO-V6TBKRWND9OdiaVp8TUSqAQ5IjY8LX9gMjUEWvk8ECefiatO7Ne0HUxNTYlrYAjyKWLAlQatbishIy4P4v32MftdSgeglMhQmfZd7VDhIgTihGfkBa/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h36/h001.6iYRfgcx4H2lX9KBs_2KMair4uq7fNF44nxmcFPukj4 ) to lead its video team. * *Feastables* is hiring a brand manager ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.B2E1Lx3rilPH-z0PwcVbJvTQdjqQUX3c2C_ZOCxTIi9cuUcKyUCNzkaUbXBr5KamEp_W6qsxkuyTFdSdkeoswgbZ2mbQBh33FGIY4OYXwLZNu3bMH5wvG0LOHARHa4n-jYjjwawYIXkrtHzUv28v3UeU8ozXbx8rd03Q7HD4paZetL4k8Xi9wQxJzo5LPKej9edVLdmbFsrhhDES8-Pf_dYW9c0e_JDLuGg_m0ZsOxaVKcy9y8J7wEWXdKBrV2EMcmJ2-PKwa4e94hljMVPLS4DnHKrs4dh9hCR3hhrsHUques9l11BSEtT3ouM-KlwR/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h37/h001.kMYdTGdvv-uDl8jCqWyAL5GJTQ_Bd_Kwdc9UeMePj60 ) with a focus on customer strategy and product. ************** 🔥 Press Worthy ************** * Markiplier’s ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.OgllEJ3JCgjyk5BP-YcKPZfl0T-uMPFN5iiVyaJnubRZKrTaysjfMde5Qdt4XElFKapAoqQU6y6hhT-E_EswG-jWtPmJceKdaHbQilHO6Jv4iAlj3BrLCjUlX7nr-Wzhjlv8ylA_hswtZ31YEg_2Y0ospeMvUaXKHQcth2oF7tymyIiDZyCmEusKIJtXEpNUfOSYGFxvxMJH2K3tuOZDJxolKPiyOZUJXlqsfGWLBOtuChUkYknOECMMSU9-NVum6_fPHmwhpAtAhsKBr0hLkA/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h38/h001.n7w7BanLsHPYv6_nj9Hs2djFvukNnefkvuGFTH_t6LI ) independent movie, Iron Lung , got picked up by major theaters including AMC, Regal, and Cinemark. * 30,000+ social pros track trends before they go viral. 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Subscribe for free ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.nQE6XPUnByDtOR3UuMMJiIV2r7m9KckyY9hoiX5OPchD-EGsldD-toXmnOUWRmNUMKkmd5qzvEXUNCiOVP1FNKUlDtZxoz_dRdI7sebgXdKEOHpzR9ItMK_n0xE-PYQX21AsUs1DZB1ijq-j0zoNM6XBtMNjeD_4mooNpk-tG5y2Ro6HyloP6kuOoRIbzKDxPsXpBsrSPC77G03aqC3uYgRArkuFFlKGLgdi07QVo8aCPtLC_pIckxrpwbkyH0SM620Ous_YIAjSELvPoDVDF7b5Z_pXyQOVofCjHPd8ap1WGoG6Il6Ht_tIbtqlzdcS/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h39/h001._jEs7UzbsOXQ_D-43gWbB83pRaTXTRUC0XBsw7LzM0A ). * YouTube ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.o_w40zqKtY9ksnzWFuATgq7ZR9tBWQT8jVFfDRJfb5khb2nT9L27pqRaqNshn_sGRdMvajndyyKIwgJI3yQN4emXqpAgC-WOGSOtFFkTU3bOwR8nLEM9oQ2bYcuMy6Il7R1tvgn4RMaLaqRCYf_Fge3yJS4rSu0kAfrUlD_n_YL_936G1t8t9tjxUZEypoyZc2HbKofVGv68Wg5u_BHMlUKaPmI4iGof4gkXK79iXw12oQ7dMXTpF3cG91MFqjqoIDIe0_UEDoEwX8khgLFJMwwgj1l6ZkMVkbzrqYVn1oh33QeCVdFG8eXqJJO5K763/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h40/h001.tqqq8yZGawYZUg5u1fwZWwJA6Py2m55ugQILDtNZ9RM ) lets US creators receive payouts in PayPal’s stablecoin cryptocurrency. * NY creator Timm Chiusano ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.OgllEJ3JCgjyk5BP-YcKPb82zVae2igNuhJXcgr6_I2HOwGDI4jX5SbSTauTMqUsQgInLaxYQihXW270gcrsgGh9W8RadKB1GjtSimjxyRzU9Ci2wGNJyOC6jNH4fFZuiM4JVwC7muk99rJSNblIw1I-CIIuKJ8spyh2bXgwuJ8cA92YH6JbFbAo-vCbmSLHBKReH2_d9r5XMwg5LdRQefDhQe4xK1d6Zgs3A4Iuye1JxCtYKbvPGbDkwH--e_4WbJhdDAxIvPYH2a-B7TdRpg/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h41/h001.tNv9pSnAMwjSOK5m2boJ7BvF3dywsUlj-4XxfJMtG4A ) hosts a TED Talk on appreciation. * Lifestyle creator Kelsey Darragh ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.OgllEJ3JCgjyk5BP-YcKPWZUEEzgw9EYZGFx3YVKPJxO_lrt9aibQLjt6FoJLlWqearnD-y26oTwD6kg6IcV81HLcRTAuWRa1M6vNtuc-xnscVAc3ZDfQyfpFA5lhZbh3O8Yp2HOdASVKJ8E0y7x_0ivuSdz1d_5ZFTqHs4_Rnlmw49T-ly6QGPVd1Iy95JCt3l_a7qQToxwEIx6-urtmoqje6NjgiCZRSIjk9OtiiIzYhUkh1NJor23lxG-Sr-b/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h42/h001.aJdHhxtniU1A7lK3crKo6XJ9a97vWExovLC2ywNIyeI ) is hosting a digital premiere for her documentary film, The Limits of Forgiveness. * Sidemen manager Jordan Schwarzenberger ( https://link.mail.beehiiv.com/ss/c/u001.OgllEJ3JCgjyk5BP-YcKPeQ7GCWcHfEk8YH8_t5rwgOoTeCqMjIoIcvA3pEtbbt-bnw5-LljHFs2c73-APNsF1IBsKRJLTGiJa8qu7BlHfkbo9abn3M2tVG-EnmGpsWv098r6QYQG0kFp5YUtFqi5l120XClGcMEaa1VvKU3S1HQQAWYq27_B_n9d2ycnCXns7bsWzYZvy7vMbJjk6_oSBESdX1EBwfQno7nWG3EiWSqN-cQDEO-QL8MtvJgTARstC-t8ScwTuZ4JhJPG3T5-A/4mg/pteNyUWZToaZrKXQ4teV_Q/h43/h001.En-x5ajc0kdJYKmxL17SiP0gHwXgBC2PRruMHLwDXY4 ) starts a podcast, Think Like a Creator. 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