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Explore every episode of the podcast Creator Economy Live

Dive into the complete episode list for Creator Economy Live. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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TitlePub. DateDuration
Inside the Dhar Mann Empire with CEO Sean Atkins20 Nov 202501:02:20

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Want these insights and more in person? Join us in Las Vegas, January 13 - 14 2026 for Creator Economy Live West and use code CELPOD20 at checkout!

Episode 76 of Creator Economy Live dives deep into the future of content with Sean Atkins, CEO of Dhar Mann Studios and a veteran of MTV, HBO, Discovery, Jellysmack, Disney, and more. Sean shares why he shifted from traditional media to creator-driven companies, how DMS built its 125,000 sq. ft. production powerhouse in Los Angeles, and what purpose-driven storytelling looks like at scale.

Keith and Brendan also unpack the week’s biggest creator economy headlines — from TikTok Shop’s staggering $19B quarter and Instagram’s new competitor insights, to Facebook Groups opening up and the rise of influencer requests at Make-A-Wish.

You’ll learn:
 • Why creators now rival major studios in reach and cultural impact
 • What brands still misunderstand about YouTube sponsorships
 • How Sean structures priorities between content, community, and growth
 • What the business model looks like behind the world’s largest digital scripted studio
 • And the creator/brand picks of the week, including SoFi, Whoop, and rising creators shaking up the industry

If you’re building, scaling, or partnering in the creator economy, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

A Priceless Creator Strategy - Cheryl Guerin on Brand Longevity & the Future of Influencer Marketing06 Nov 202501:03:31

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Mastercard’s Priceless campaign has stood the test of time — but how does a legacy brand stay culturally relevant in a world ruled by creators and constant change?

This week, Keith and Brendan chat with Cheryl Guerin, EVP of Brand Strategy & Innovation at Mastercard, who’s been with the brand for more than two decades and knows what it takes to evolve without losing your core. Cheryl shares how Mastercard is embracing creator partnerships, why influencer marketing deserves more strategic attention, and what marketers can learn from Mastercard’s blend of innovation and consistency.

You’ll also hear her take on cultural moments, creative risk-taking, and the brand’s cutting-edge Artist Accelerator Program.

Before diving in, the hosts catch up on the latest creator economy headlines — including Adobe’s new AI tools, ShopMy’s massive valuation, and the first-ever academic center for the creator economy at Syracuse University.

Pepsi, Platforms & Punchy Marketing Truths with Christina Westley10 Jul 202501:00:27

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Want to get all this content and MORE in person? Then you need to be at Creator Economy Live East, heading to NYC August 5-6. Use code CELPOD20 for 20% off your ticket, and the first 500 brands go free!

This week, we’re joined by none other than Christina Westley — a true insider in the influencer game. From her early days at VaynerMedia to running influencer marketing for Pepsi, and now striking out on her own, Christina’s seen the industry from every angle. She shares honest takes on agency vs. brand life, why influencer budgets still lag behind expectations, and how AI avatars could reshape creator content.

Before Christina joins, Keith and Brendan unpack VidCon, Cannes hot topics (hello, AI governance), and why the influencer world isn’t freaking out about TikTok’s 180-day extension. We also dive into the latest stats, studies, and product updates from YouTube, Instagram, Google, and TikTok — it’s a jam-packed news rundown.

Live From Cannes: How TikTok is Powering the Next Wave of Creators20 Jun 202500:49:59

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From the beaches of Cannes to your For You page, Keith and Brendan sit down with Kim Farrell - Head of Creators at TikTok, and dive into how TikTok is helping creators connect, create, and cash in. We explore why live events are becoming a core pillar of creator strategy, which underused monetization tools every creator should know about, and how to actually define "high quality" content in 2025. Plus, our Creator & Brand of the Week picks: Dhar Mann, Louis Butterfield, Dove’s bold new campaign, and the app that literally makes you put your phone down. 

Inside Newell Brands: CMO Melanie Huet on What It Takes to Lead Iconic Brands09 Jun 202501:04:19

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Want to get all this content and MORE in person? Then you need to be at Creator Economy Live East, heading to NYC August 5-6. Use code CELPOD20 for 20% off your ticket, and the first 500 brands go free!

Melanie Huet, CMO of Newell Brands (home to Sharpie, Coleman, Rubbermaid, and more), joins the pod to talk about her journey from Unilever and Kraft to leading a powerhouse portfolio of everyday icons. But before we get into boardrooms and brand strategy, we dive into her other passion — shooting and editing sports content as the ultimate team video mom.

We cover:

  • What unites (and divides) the world’s biggest CPG brands
  • How Newell approaches influencer marketing at scale
  • The KPIs Melanie really cares about
  • What she’d create content about if she were an influencer

Plus:
 The latest in AI from Google’s jaw-dropping Veo 3 to smart glasses, what 825 social pros say about Instagram, TikTok, and burnout, and why carousel posts might be 2025’s surprise hit.

Creator of the Week, Brand of the Week, and all the usual chaos — don’t miss it.

More Than Babysitters: Care.com & Olivia Petzy's Social Media Stardom29 May 202501:04:30

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Keith and Brendan sit down with Olivia Petzy, Social Media and Communications Group Manager at Care.com. Olivia shares how she built Care.com’s influencer strategy from the ground up, why she’s passionate about authentic storytelling, and what brands get wrong when they expect social leads to be on-camera talent. Plus, we cover the latest headlines: Publicis’ acquisition of Captiv8, Whalar’s $400M valuation, new creator tools from YouTube and Instagram, and all the wild AI updates out of Google I/O. Stay tuned for creator and brand shoutouts, including AI app builder VibeCode and parenting tech fave Life360.

Gabe Gomez on Ditching the Influencer Marketing Playbook & Building a Personal Brand15 May 202501:04:54

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Enjoying the Creator Economy Live podcast? Hear all these actionable insights and build connections with HUGE industry titan brands at Creator Economy Live East 2025. PLUS as a loyal listener, you can get 20% off your ticket using POD20 at checkout!

On this episode of Creator Economy Live, Keith Bendes and Brendan Gahan sit down with Gabe Gomez — a social strategist who’s made waves on LinkedIn and beyond. With experience at Edelman, Verizon, and now MCoBeauty, Gabe offers a unique perspective on what brands are getting right (and wrong) when it comes to influencer marketing.

They dive into why the traditional influencer marketing playbook no longer works, how brands can take creative risks without losing control, and whether everyone needs to become a creator to stay relevant in today’s digital landscape.

You’ll also hear their take on the latest industry news, including:

- Meta’s mixed reviews on its new editing tools

- TikTok surpassing Twitch as the #2 live platform

- New research revealing that finding the right creators is still the #1 challenge for marketers

- YouTube’s report on the rise of virtual creators

- Peacock’s bold move to bring TikTok talent to TV with four new original shows

Plus, don’t miss this week’s Creator and Brand of the Week picks — featuring Zach King, Rob Mayhew, Alix Earle’s viral Pantene moment, and more.

Whether you’re brand-side, agency-side, or building your own creator brand, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and actionable takeaways.

From Diapers to Dances: Kimberly-Clark’s Influencer Strategy Gets Real08 May 202501:08:38

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Toilet paper, tampons, tissues, and... TikTok? In this episode of Creator Economy Live, Keith and Brendan sit down with Megan Narcisi and Lauren Staff from Kimberly-Clark—home to household brands like Huggies, Kleenex, and Kotex—to talk about what it really takes to make everyday products pop on social. From wild agency stories to building a center of excellence in a corporate giant, they spill all. Plus, we dive into LinkedIn’s influencer glow-up, Meta’s new ad features, and the AI cat that hijacked Quinta Brunson’s feed.


 Want to get all this content and MORE in person? Then you need to be at Creator Economy Live East, heading to NYC August 5-6. Use code CELPOD20 for 20% off your ticket, and the first 500 brands go free! 

Double Trouble - An Insider Look Into Gruns' Viral Success24 Apr 202501:07:28

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 In this special episode of Creator Economy Live, hosts Keith Bendes and Brendan Gahan are joined by not one but two powerhouse guests—Ali Kaltman and Janna Ninekin from Gruns, the brand that’s been taking over your social feed. They dive deep into how Gruns crafts scroll-stopping content, builds measurable impact through influencer marketing, and structures a high-performing team. Plus, the duo explores the evolving revenue models for creators, how community drives long-term success, and the creator-brand partnerships changing the game. And of course, don’t miss this week’s standout creators, brands, and follows. 

Want to get all this content and MORE in person? Then you need to be at Creator Economy Live East, heading to NYC August 5-6. Use code CELPOD20 for 20% off your ticket, and the first 500 brands go free!

The Visionary Behind SNL’s Wildest Digital Shorts17 Apr 202501:02:26

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On this episode of Creator Economy Live, we’re joined by the one and only Mike Diva—the creative powerhouse directing some of Saturday Night Live’s most unforgettable digital shorts. From viral YouTube hits to high-gloss SNL sketches, Mike has built a career on chaotic brilliance, razor-sharp satire, and mind-blowing VFX.

Hosts Brendan Gahan and Keith Bendes chat with Mike about breaking into the industry, maintaining his distinct visual voice in mainstream media, how the SNL gig came to be, and what creators and brands alike can learn from sketch comedy’s golden formula.

Plus: AI in the creator world, YouTube vs. TV, and why Chili’s deserves your respect.

Live From San Francisco - How to Build a 17M+ Digital Audience with Marina Mogilko10 Apr 202500:49:31

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Recorded live at Shack15 in San Francisco, this episode of Creator Economy Live brings the heat with our very special guest, Marina Mogilko — co-founder of LinguaTrip.com and the creator behind Linguamarina and Silicon Valley Girl, with a combined digital audience of over 17 million.

Hosts Keith Bendes and Brendan Gahan catch up on the latest news in the creator space — including the looming TikTok ban, new YouTube Shorts updates, and why Gen Z is leaning harder into creator content than traditional media.

Then we dive deep with Marina:
- How she built not one, but three 7-figure YouTube channels
- Her journey from immigrant entrepreneur to edtech founder
- Why Slow Ventures bet on her—and how she's now betting on herself again with a new snack brand for kids
- Plus, her current revenue mix and what she sees coming next

Stick around for our Creator & Brand of the Week segment, shoutouts to Will Smith's creator collab marathon and Saratoga Water’s viral moment, and a nod to political creator-turned-candidate Kat Abughazaleh.

Don’t forget to subscribe and check the bio for links to our Creator Economy Insider newsletter and details on the next Creator Economy Live event in Vegas!

How Passionfruit is Shaping the Future of Creator Marketing03 Apr 202500:54:41

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Join hosts Keith Bendes and Brendan Gahan on the latest episode of Creator Economy Live, where they dive into the ever-evolving world of influencer marketing. This week, they sit down with James Del, the visionary behind Passionfruit, a platform pushing boundaries in the creator space. With a career spanning Gawker, Tao Group, and numerous leadership roles, James shares his journey, marketing insights, and the key trends shaping the industry. From SXSW's creator palooza to the rise of Linkedfluencers and the $10 billion influencer marketing spend forecasted for 2025, this episode is packed with essential knowledge for anyone in the creator economy. Plus, don’t miss the Creator & Brand of the Week picks and a look at the latest industry buzz!

Creator Meets Strategist: Ashwinn Krishnaswamy on Branding, Monetization, and Growth 23 Oct 202501:11:38

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Creator Economy Live West is taking place 13 - 14 January 2026! Use code POD20 for 20% off your ticket price.

Join Keith Bendes and Brendan Gahan for another episode of Creator Economy Live as they sit down with Ashwinn Krishnaswamy — Brand Expert, Partner at Forge Design, and content creator known for his smart takes on branding and business across TikTok and Instagram. Ashwinn shares his journey from agency life to social stardom, how he balances brand partnerships with running Forge, and what he’s learned about building brands that truly resonate online. 

Spillin The Hot Content Tea with Foster Kamer21 Mar 202501:02:02

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Welcome back to Creator Economy Live, your go-to podcast for everything influencer marketing and the creator economy. Hosts Keith Bendes and Brendan Gahan are back with another exciting episode, bringing you the latest in the world of media, creators, and everything in between.

First, a huge thank you to our incredible sponsors at Linqia and the amazing production team over at Creator Economy Live.

In this episode, we’re joined by Foster Kamer, a long-time friend, writer, editor, photographer, and media strategist. Foster’s work has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, New York Magazine, and more. He’s also an OG Gawker alum and now serves as Editorial Director at Futurism, where he’s shaping the future of media. He’s been anthologized in The Best American Food Writing and regularly shares his insights on his Substack, FosterTalk. If you’re a regular listener, you’ve probably heard us mention him before!

Foster joins us to discuss the evolution of media, the intersection of traditional and emerging media, and what it’s like to navigate the changing landscape as a creator.

Delivering Creator Economy Insights Straight to Your Door with DoorDash06 Mar 202501:12:17

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In this episode of Creator Economy Live, hosts Keith Bendes and Brendan Gahan catch up on the latest trends in influencer marketing and the creator economy. They dive into March Madness NIL deals, TikTok’s latest updates, and Amazon shutting down Inspire. Plus, they discuss Instagram's new ad format, YouTube’s AI Shorts integration, and more.

The episode features a conversation with Adam Ornelas, Influencer Lead at DoorDash, who shares his experience working with major brands like Coinbase, Chipotle, and Whole Foods. Adam talks about his approach to influencer marketing, real-time partnerships, and the skyrocketing influencer rates. He also discusses his role in major brand activations like the Super Bowl and shares insights on the evolving creator economy landscape.

Wrapping up with the Creator of the Week and Brand of the Week, Keith and Brendan highlight top creators and innovative brands shaping the space.

Nike, Jamba Juice, & YouTube Walk Into Our Podcast… Enters Kim Larson27 Feb 202501:03:44

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Welcome back to Creator Economy Live, your go-to source for all things influencer marketing. This week in episode 54, Keith Bendes and Brendan Gahan break down the latest trends, including record-breaking NIL deal spending, the rise of performance-driven influencer marketing, and how YouTube has overtaken mobile as the top way people watch content.

 

We also celebrate 20 years of YouTube, exploring how it reshaped media and made creators more influential than traditional celebrities. Then, we’re joined by Kim Larson, Global MD & Head of YouTube Creators, who shares insights on why brands still prioritize Instagram and TikTok, the battle between long-form and short-form content, and where YouTube is headed next.

 

To wrap up, we highlight Khaby Lame as our Creator of the Week and Dunkin’ as our Brand of the Week for their standout Super Bowl and Grammy campaigns.

From Building the Creator Economy to Thriving in It - Jon Youshaei Spills Insider Secrets21 Feb 202500:45:49

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Live from Creator Economy Live 2025 in Las Vegas, Keith & Brendan are joined by Jon Youshaei — former Instagram & YouTube insider turned full-time creator. After spending nearly a decade building creator teams at the biggest platforms, Jon took the leap to go solo. In this episode, he reveals why he left his dream job, how he landed interviews with icons like MrBeast, Logan Paul, Marques Brownlee, and Charli D’Amelio, and why he doubled down on high-quality production in a world of raw content.

 

We also dive into the brand-creator paradox—should companies invest deeply in a few influencers or spread their bets? Plus, Jon shares his take on the battle between short-form vs. long-form content, why brands are still spending more on TikTok & Instagram despite YouTube's superior monetization, and some juicy behind-the-scenes stories from his biggest interviews. 

The Evolution of Content Marketing with Marissa Kraines11 Feb 202500:51:02

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In this episode of Creator Economy Live, hosts Keith Bendes and Brendan Gahan sit down with marketing executive Marissa Kraines, former VP of Social & Content Marketing at Salesforce. From her start in the music industry to shaping innovative B2B campaigns, Marissa shares insights on creativity, influencer marketing, and the future of the creator economy. Plus, we break down Meta’s latest push to lure creators, Instagram’s algorithm updates, and the launch of Linqia’s Creator Intelligence tool.

Michael Easter - Embracing Discomfort and Mastering the Creator Economy22 Jan 202500:54:44

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In this episode of Creator Economy Live, Keith Bendes and Brendan Gahan sit down with bestselling author and adventurer Michael Easter. From the secrets behind The Comfort Crisis to navigating the transition from traditional media to thriving as a modern creator, Michael shares how stepping outside your comfort zone can unlock extraordinary performance. Plus, we dive into the latest industry news, from TikTok bans to Meta's shifts, and highlight creators and brands making waves. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation!

Interested in attending Creator Economy Live? Join us this February 4-5 to see the podcast in action! Use code CELPOD20 at checkout to save 20% on your ticket price.

The Future of Influencer Marketing + THE Social Newsletter Guru: Rachel Karten15 Jan 202501:05:39

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In our landmark 50th episode, hosts Keith Bendes and Brendan Gahan are joined by none other than Rachel Karten, the mastermind behind the beloved newsletter Link in Bio, with over 94k subscribers.

We dive into Rachel's journey from brand social media expert to independent creator, discuss her eye-opening survey findings, and uncover her top predictions for 2025. Plus, Keith and Brendan share their own bold forecasts for the year ahead, touching on AI video, creator-driven content, hybrid compensation models, and more.

COW/BOW (creator of the week & brand of the week)

Creator of the week (COW)
Keith: Elisha Zepeda (ez.bookdesign) - On TikTok, the book cover designer brings 400K followers behind the scenes by sharing the briefs he receives from publishers, the resulting cover options, and the ultimate winners.
Brendan: Walker Ward (aka Walkedsauce42_) a big burly dude who does a ton of hilarious impressions - like GRWM but he’s but he’s using tongs instead of a hair dryer, peanut butter instead of makeup. Or he’ll pretend to be some coked up Chad/Finance bro. He’s got these persona’s down.
Rachel: Paper Eats - set made of construction paper

 

Brand of the week
Keith: Honey is being torn apart right now online as their business model is being called “an adpocalypse” for creators. On December 22, YouTuber MegaLag posted a bombshell exposé that accused Honey of snatching creators’ commissions by replacing their affiliate links with its own. LegalEagle just filed a class action lawsuit.
Brendan: Notion/Snoop campaign
Rachel: Topicals

 

Follow
Keith: Meta’s moves this year in affiliate and AI video generation with the release of Movie Gen
One Billion Users is a card game that lets players launch their own social media network and compete with influencers—has blown past its Kickstarter goal by earning over $60,000 in funding. There are troll cards, influencer cards, follower cards, etc.
Brendan: https://www.instagram.com/winniedapointer
Rachel: Michael Freund Law on Twitter

 

 

✨ Special Offer: Use code CELPOD20 for 20% off tickets to our Creator Economy Live event this February 4-5 in Vegas!

The 12 Days of Christmas, Creator Economy Edition: A Year in Review23 Dec 202400:51:10

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Welcome to Creator Economy Live’s festive holiday edition! In this special episode, we’re celebrating the year by revisiting The 12 Stories in Social—the top moments that shaped the creator economy in 2024. Inspired by "The 12 Days of Christmas," we take a creative spin through the stories that mattered most:


  • The rise of creators on big screens
  • New metrics driving social platform success
  • Social media's influence on politics
  • The women dominating online conversations
  • And much more!


Keith and Brendan also share their bold predictions for 2025, including the explosion of live-stream shopping, hybrid compensation models, and the LinkedIn influencer boom.

Plus, don’t miss their picks for Creator of the Year and Brand of the Year, celebrating those who redefined the industry.

As a bonus, we’re only six weeks away from the annual Creator Economy Live Conference in Vegas! Get your tickets now and join us for a live podcast recording featuring a surprise guest.

Tune in to wrap up 2024 and gear up for an even bigger 2025!


COY/BOY (creator of the year & brand of the year) 

  • Creator of the year (COY)

    • Keith: Jools Lebron

    • Brendan: Natalie + Hawk Tuah + Rogan (kingmaker)

  • Brand of the year (BOY)

    • Keith: Cerave (Michael Cera campaign)

      Brendan:  Nvidia

Tubefliter Unplugged - Josh Cohen Spills the St(r)eamy Tea20 Dec 202400:57:52

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Keith Bendes and Brendan Gahan are back for Episode 48 of Creator Economy Live! This week, we unpack the ripple effects of the TikTok ban and Kai Cenat’s record-breaking Twitch “Mafiathon.” Plus, Instagram’s Trial Reels, LinkedIn’s boosted posts, and how brands like Away and Puresport are shaking up influencer marketing.

 

Our guest, Josh Cohen, co-founder of Tubefilter and the Streamy Awards, takes us behind the curtain of digital media’s rise, sharing untold stories and his vision for the future of the creator economy. Don’t miss Creator and Brand of the Week highlights—featuring Stormi Steele, Kai Cenat, and Ground News.

 

COW/BOW (creator of the week & brand of the week) 
Creator of the week (COW)
- Keith: Content creator and Canvas Beauty founder Stormi Steele earned $2 million in a single livestream.
- Brendan: Kai Cenat
- Josh: Pokemon TV channel

 

Brand of the week 
- Keith: Away x Celeb Lookalikes (Timothee Chalamet, Jeremy Allen)
Puresport sent out empty boxes to creators and asked them to send back items from other gifting campaigns that they've never used, to donate to a charity 
- Brendan: Sprout Social, Land Rover
- Josh: Ground News

Creator Economy Insider Information with Kaya Yurieff04 Dec 202401:09:40

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This week, we’re thrilled to have Kaya Yurieff, the Team Lead on the Creator Economy at The Information and one of our favorite industry reporters. Kaya shares her journey from working at CNN with Jake Tapper to becoming a leading voice in the creator economy. We dive into how her team produces unparalleled insights daily, the evolving landscape of the creator space, and her bold predictions for 2025.

Before Kaya joins, Keith and Brendan catch up on the latest news, including highlights from the LinkedIn Partner Summit, TikTok's new affiliate partners, and the myth-busting insights from Instagram's Adam Mosseri.

Creator of the week (COW)

- Keith: Fitness creator Maxx Chewning announced that he sold his candy brand, Sour Strips, to The Hershey Company.

- Brendan: TalkingTalktuah 50k on IG, @cam__george and @peter.ditzler are host a Talk Tuah companion podcast.

- Kaya: Josie Balka 600k instagram followers


Brand of the week (BOW)

- Keith: Sony just broke the record for most comments on a TikTok video - To promote The Last Dance (Venom movie)

- Brendan: Anyone but Jaguar. Wharhol lookalikes. Channeling Ridley Scott’s famous 1984 ad.

- Kaya: Samsung / mythical FAST channel


Follow:

- Keith: Visa announced it’s officially recognizing creators as small businesses

- Brendan: Armie HammerTime podcast.

- Kaya: Kylie Kelce podcast

What’s Next for Creators and Brands? A Deep Dive with Tom Goodwin09 Oct 202501:09:13

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In this episode of Creator Economy Live, Keith and Brendan sit down with Tom Goodwin, author of Digital Darwinism and founder of All We Have Is Now, to explore the shifting balance between creativity and performance in modern marketing.

 

Tom shares his take on how technology and creator culture are redefining the industry, why marketers lost sight of creativity, and what’s next for brands navigating the fast-changing landscape of content, AI, and consumer expectations.

Lauren Flanigan - The Role of Influencers & Creators in Total Brand Performance14 Nov 202401:02:27

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In Episode 46 of Creator Economy Live, hosts Keith Bendes and Brendan Gahan dive into the latest updates in influencer marketing and the creator economy with special guest Lauren Flanigan, Head of Global Brands for Refreshments at Mondelez.

 

Lauren brings her insights from working with iconic brands like Oreo, Ritz, and Cadbury, sharing her take on influencer strategies and brand performance. They also discuss Meta’s rumored AI search engine, the rise of retail influencers, and Instagram’s video quality downgrade.


This episode is sponsored by Linqia, the #1 influencer marketing partner for the world's leading brands. Having executed over 3,000 campaigns for more than 650 brands, Linqia combines technology powered by Google Vision AI with award winning service to deliver measurable influencer results. Go to linqia.com or send a note to hello@linqia.com to speak with an influencer expert.

Michelle Miller: K18 is the #1 talked about haircare brand among influencers07 Nov 202401:02:25

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Episode 45 features guest Michelle Miller, CMO of K18 - the haircare brand that has seen a meteoric rise in the last few years, being the #1 most discussed hair care brand amongst influencers.

 

Tune in to hear about Michelle's time at UCSC with co-host Brendan Gahan, her early career in journalism, and her range of roles in luxury beauty brands (including Too Faced and Kosas Cosmetics). Also, hear Keith and Brendan discuss the huge impact long-form content such as podcasts and YouTube videos, may have had on this years USA election campaigns.

This episode is sponsored by Linqia, the #1 influencer marketing partner for the world's leading brands. Having executed over 3,000 campaigns for more than 650 brands, Linqia combines technology powered by Google Vision AI with award winning service to deliver measurable influencer results. Go to linqia.com or send a note to hello@linqia.com to speak with an influencer expert.

From Lipstick to Last-Minute Groceries: Esraa Elzin on Influencers, Industry Shifts, and TikTok Ambitions!31 Oct 202400:52:49

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Join Keith, Brendan and guest Esraa Elzin, Influencer Marketing lead at Instacart, to discuss Esraa's PR background having worked at Marina Maher, went in-house role in the beauty world at top brands Estee Lauder Companies and LVMH before landing her role at Instacart.

COW/BOW (creator of the week & brand of the week) 

  • Creator of the week (COW)

    • Keith: Rachel Karten from Link in Bio - newsletter about working in social media and creating stand out content - has over 75k subscribers

    • Brendan: Charles Trippy - talking about old school creators/influencer partners/this past week was WWWY

    • Esraa: Stehfunee (mom/daughter combo on TikTok)

  • Brand of the week 

    • Keith: Adobe announced over 100 new features and tools at its annual MAX event in Miami

    • Brendan: Notion - out here for make with notion

    • Esraa: New York Liberty

  • Follow

    • Keith Google’s AI-driven NotebookLM feature has simultaneously impressed and unsettled online commenters by generating AI-hosted “podcasts” based on user-provided research.

    • Brendan: Reid Hoffman

Esraa: Instagram story comments

This episode is sponsored by Linqia, the #1 influencer marketing partner for the world's leading brands. Having executed over 3,000 campaigns for more than 650 brands, Linqia combines technology powered by Google Vision AI with award winning service to deliver measurable influencer results. Go to linqia.com or send a note to hello@linqia.com to speak with an influencer expert.

Influencer Marketing vs. Brendan’s Dating Life – Which One's Really Pulling the Numbers?17 Oct 202401:08:28

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In Brendan and Keith's latest solo episode, they dive into Linqia's highly anticipated, 2025 State of Influencer Marketing Report and it's a treasure trove of data.

 

It's survey based data from 200+ US enterprise marketers, and some of the top insights include a lot of useful stats around influencer budgets, Tiktok's potential ban and its impact on influencers, and using influencer content beyond creators feed.

Also, get ready to get personal as Keith & Brendan discuss family holidays, entrepreneur newbies and awkward date run-ins.

 

This episode is sponsored by Linqia, the #1 influencer marketing partner for the world's leading brands. Having executed over 3,000 campaigns for more than 650 brands, Linqia combines technology powered by Google Vision AI with award winning service to deliver measurable influencer results. Go to linqia.com or send a note to hello@linqia.com to speak with an influencer expert.

From Student Athlete to Super Bowl: Victoria Garrick Browne’s Journey to Becoming a Social Media Superstar 02 Oct 202400:57:22

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In episode 42 of Creator Economy Live, hosts Keith Bendes and Brendan Gahan sit down with powerhouse influencer and Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, Victoria Garrick Browne. From battling mental health struggles as a Division 1 athlete to skyrocketing to influencer fame, Victoria opens up about her inspiring journey.  

This episode is sponsored by Linqia, the #1 influencer marketing partner for the world's leading brands. Having executed over 3,000 campaigns for more than 650 brands, Linqia combines technology powered by Google Vision AI with award winning service to deliver measurable influencer results. Go to linqia.com or send a note to hello@linqia.com to speak with an influencer expert. 

 

🐄 Our Creators Of the Week (COW): 


Keith: DeMarcus Sawn: https://www.tiktok.com/@artbydemarcusshawn?lang=en  
Brendan: Ross (Corporate Bro): https://www.linkedin.com/in/corporatebro/ 

Victoria: Max Browne: https://www.instagram.com/accounts/login/?next=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Fmaxbrowne%2F%3Fhl%3Den&is_from_rle  
 

👏 Our Brands Of the Week (BOW) 

 

Keith: Guild - employed by Fortune 1000 companies to manage their education assistance benefits: https://guild.com/  
Brendan: K18: https://www.k18hair.co.uk/?srsltid=AfmBOopiMKXQuKXhxwx1Z3RxLb6bxxz8QMogVsU3zPfQz5AZoiNNBDdw  

Victoria: Rare Beauty: https://www.rarebeauty.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoraTpKJCfKlTbO8a6bgt7-5U62sbHhEoDg5O1e8yjUCugJ39hWI  

From Finance to Fame: How Humphrey Yang Is Taking Over the Creator Economy 19 Sep 202401:04:27

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Keith & Brendan talk with finance influencer Humphrey Yang running through his meteoric rise from a financial advisor to a social media powerhouse, the secret behind his multi-platform growth, and what brands get wrong when working with creators. 

This episode is sponsored by Linqia, the #1 influencer marketing partner for the world's leading brands. Having executed over 3,000 campaigns for more than 650 brands, Linqia combines technology powered by Google Vision AI with award winning service to deliver measurable influencer results. Go to linqia.com or send a note to hello@linqia.com to speak with an influencer expert. 

 

🐄 Our Creators Of the Week (COW)


Keith: Logan Moffitt’s cucumber craze: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/life/health-wellness/2024/08/15/tiktok-cucumber-boy-viral-recipes/74802440007/  
Brendan: Haley Welch, Hawk Tuah Girl: https://www.instagram.com/accounts/login/?next=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Fhay_welch%2F%3Fhl%3Den&is_from_rle  

Humphrey: https://www.youtube.com/@isaaccarlton  
 

👏 Our Brands Of the Week (BOW) 

 

Keith: https://www.campaignlive.co.uk/article/away-debuts-influencer-heavy-campaign-film-promote-soft-shell-product-line/1880300  

Brendan: Brent Underwood - Kickstarter: Board Game: https://www.board-game.co.uk/product/my-fathers-work-kickstarter-edition/?srsltid=AfmBOory5pUFMWoT0cl44g34GnOBcv34CJxyx6v6kP_wNg9LJt3W-cRj  

Humphrey: Cirkul - a brand of water bottles that allow users to add flavor to their water with flavor cartridges, also known as Sips: https://drinkcirkul.com/pages/why-cirkul#:~:text=Cirkul's%20innovative%20bottle%20allows%20you,turn%20of%20the%20flavor%20dial.  

 

 
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This podcast is brought to you by the biggest event for influencer marketers in the US Creator Economy Live! Join Keith and Brendan live and in person as well as 100s of brands in Vegas 4  5 February 2025 for lively conversation and debate about everything in the world of influencer marketing and the creator economy.  

https://creatoreconomylive.com/ 


In our B2B Era: Talking Swifty and LinkedIn Influencers with Danielle Ito, Notion05 Sep 202401:06:59

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In this episode of Creator Economy Live, hosts Keith and Brendan chat with Danielle Ito, the influencer marketing lead at Notion, about her diverse experience in creator partnerships across brands like Taco Bell and Madison Reed. They deep dive into influencer marketing on LinkedIn as well as how affiliate marketing is integrating into creator marketing. 

As always, we cover the latest industry news, including the FTC’s crackdown on fake followers and TikTok’s growing dominance in video marketing. Plus, discover the top creators and brands of the week. Tune in for insights and trends shaping the creator economy. 

 

👏 Our Brands Of the Week (BOW): 

Silk https://silk.com/  

Outerknown:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BEGBX2eVe5w  

Joe and The Juice https://content.joejuice.com/campaigns/nick-kyrgios  

 

🐄 Our Creators of the Week (COW):  

FOSTERTALK https://www.readfostertalk.com/  

CR7Studios7 https://www.youtube.com/c/CR7Studios7  

@hannahchody https://www.instagram.com/hannahchody/?hl=en   


This podcast is brought to you by the biggest event for influencer marketers in the US Creator Economy Live! Join Keith and Brendan live and in person as well as 100s of brands in Vegas on February 4-5 for lively conversation and debate about everything in the world of influencer marketing and the creator economy.

ICYMI: Lia Haberman’s takes on The White House Creator Economy Conference20 Aug 202401:07:33

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In this episode of Creator Economy Live, Keith and Brendan welcome Lia Haberman, a leading voice in the creator economy and founder/author of ICYMI newsletter. Fresh from attending the first ever White House Creator Economy Conference Lia shares her takeaways and gives us a peek into the conversations that took place. Lia also dives into her impressive career from big brand activations, to the academic side of the creator economy.  

🐄 Creators of the Week (COW):  

  • Joel Bervell 

  • MatPat 

  • Theo Von 

👏 Brand of the Week (BOW):  

  • Dunkin’ x Artists Equity 

  • Vegas Sphere 

  • Patrick Ta 


This podcast is brought to you by the biggest event for influencer marketers in the US Creator Economy Live! Join Keith and Brendan live and in person as well as 100s of brands in Vegas on February 4-5 for lively conversation and debate about everything in the world of influencer marketing and the creator economy. 

Periods, Politics, and Brendan goes Brat - with Nadya Okamoto 08 Aug 202400:52:33

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ICYMI, last week Keith and Brendan were joined by Nadya Okamoto, co-Founder of August, to record the second live edition of the podcast, in partnership with Creator Economy NYC.   

Nadya is a force to be reckoned with in the creator economy. At just 25 years old, she's is founder of multiple companies, she has run for public office, AND amassed millions of followers across various platforms. Safe to say, this conversation blew us away. As a self-described "geriatric Gen Z," Nadya leverages her social media savvy to grow both her personal brand and her business. In the conversation, Nadya shares invaluable insights on how she scaled her brand using content creation and how social is feeding more and more into the political landscape. 

🐄 Creators of the Week (COW):

  • Skibidi Toilet
  • Ilona Maher
  • Nara Smith👏 Brand of the Week (BOW):  
  • Kamala Harris
  • Publicis
Jack Appleby on B2B Creator Tips and Future Social Trends05 Aug 202401:01:43

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On this week's episode of Creator Economy Live, Keith and Brendan are joined by a household name in social medial marketing, Jack Appleby. 

Jack shares his journey from a college basketball player to a leading social media strategist. He offers valuable advice for aspiring B2B creators, discusses the most impactful platform for his work and what the future holds for brands using influencer marketing. Jack also reveals which of his posts garnered the most support and how he started his content creation journey on LinkedIn and with Future Social.

Before Jack jumps in, as always, Keith and Brendan dive into the news, discussing whether we’re witnessing "The End of Peak Creator." They examine the shift towards niche influencers, TikTok’s explosion of micro-celebrities, and the changing landscape of mainstream media. 

🐄 Creators of the Week (COW):  

  • Timmc (@timmchiusano) 

  • Sam Salem (@samuelsleeves) 

  • Frankie Gaw ( @littlefatboyfrankie) 

👏 Brand of the Week (BOW):  

  • L’Oréal 

  • UPS Store 

From Thor to Insta-Core: Jaimie Alexander Rallies 1.2M Fans into a Thriving Community26 Sep 202501:04:05

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Keith and Brendan sit down for an iconic conversation with actress Jaimie Alexandar to discuss her journey from actress to creator, how she uses her social platforms to encourage positive change in her community, and how the depth within influencer marketing expands past sharing the latest lipstick.

From Chaos to Clarity of the Creator Ecosystem with Steph Martin11 Jul 202401:01:55

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This week, we have another special guest appearance alongside Brendan and Keith: Steph Martin, an influencer marketing veteran with extensive experience in fintech, healthcare, DTC, and consumer goods industries. Steph has led influencer marketing for renowned brands such as Hims & Hers and ThirdLove and is the SF chapter ambassador for Women in Influencer Marketing. 

Steph shares her journey from traditional PR to leading influencer programs on the brand side. She discusses the evolution of influencer marketing, from its early "wild west" days to a more data-driven, strategic approach. Steph also offers insights into current industry challenges, the importance of creative freedom, and the ethical considerations brands and influencers must navigate. 

As always, Brendan and Keith catch up on industry news. Topics include the debate over the value of a well-designed Instagram feed, Walmart's first-ever Creator Upfronts in LA, and the latest features being tested by Meta and Instagram. They also provide a VidCon recap, highlighting the maturing ecosystem and the growing interest in LinkedIn as a platform for creators. 

🐄 Creators of the Week (COW): 

  • Fidias Panayiotou (@ fidias0) 

  • Ruben Hassid (@ rubenhassid) 

  • Caroline Stern (@carolinemstern) 

👏 Brand of the Week (BOW): 

  • Piece of Cake Moving & Storage
  • Zyn  
  • Shipt


This episode is sponsored by Linqia, the #1 influencer marketing partner for the world's leading brands. Having executed over 3,000 campaigns for more than 650 brands, Linqia combines technology powered by Google Vision AI with award winning service to deliver measurable influencer results. Go to linqia.com or send a note to hello@linqia.com to speak with an influencer expert. 


Sign up to our newsletter: https://creatoreconomylive.com/newsletter This podcast is brought to you by the biggest event for influencer marketers in the US Creator Economy Live! Join Keith and Brendan live and in person as well as 100s of brands in Vegas on Febuary 4-5 for lively conversation and debate about everything in the world of influencer marketing and the creator economy. 

Cannes we talk about Creator Marketing?25 Jun 202400:53:09

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From glasses of rosé to insightful sessions, tune in to hear what Keith and Brendan got up to at Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. One thing that couldn’t be ignored at the festival was how creators are becoming more and more integral in the advertising landscape. 

 

They highlight the growth of social-first and creator-first brands and the increasing presence of major platforms like Pinterest, Snapchat, and TikTok at industry events. The conversation touches on the challenges brands face in measuring the ROI of influencer marketing and the potential role of AI in content personalization and scaling. They also explore the significance of retail media networks and their convergence with the creator economy, suggesting that retail-driven influencer content will become increasingly important. 

🐄 Creators of the Week (COW): 

👏 Brand of the Week (BOW): 

  • Spotify, LinkedIn, Yahoo 

  • Pinterest 

From Cars and Clothing to Consulting with Nathan Jun Poekert13 Jun 202401:09:42

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This week on the Creator Economy Live Podcast, we have another special guest appearance alongside Brendan and Keith, Nathan Jun Poekert, CMO Advisor and Executive Consultant for his company JUN. For those unfamiliar, Nathan has an impressive background, having served as Head of Social Media, Content, and Digital for American Eagle, and as Global Communications Director for BMW. 

Nathan shares his journey from agency roles to brand leadership and eventually consulting. He discusses his evolution in influencer marketing, his rise as a LinkedIn influencer, and offers insights on pushing social media teams to innovate and meet benchmarks. 

As always, Brendan and Keith catch up on industry news. Topics include Instagram's shift in algorithm focus to post share rates, tips on posting longer Reels, and the latest features Instagram is testing. They also discuss the challenges new creators face on saturated platforms and the need for incentives to keep them engaged. 

🐄 Creators of the Week (COW): 

👏 Brand of the Week (BOW): 

  • Hellmann’s: "Mayo Mani" campaign 

  • Whoop 

  • Jacquemus 

A New Kenvue on Intergrated Media with Matt Fantazier30 May 202401:09:22

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This week on the Creator Economy Live Podcast, we have an exciting episode featuring Brendan and Keith, with a special guest appearance by Matt Fantazier, who runs Integrated Media at Kenvue. For those unfamiliar, Kenvue is the new consumer business spun off from Johnson & Johnson, and it includes household brands like Neutrogena, Tylenol, and Listerine. 

Matt shares his journey through the major transition from J&J to Kenvue, his experiences in integrated media, and the evolving role of creators in today's brand ecosystems. Discover how influencer marketing has shifted from mere explanations to becoming a crucial part of brand strategies. 

Before we dive into our conversation with Matt, Brendan and Keith break down the top stories in the industry, including Meta’s NewFronts push, TikTok's premium ad options, and the significant rise in CTV advertising.  

🐄 Creators of the Week (COW):   

  • Caitlin Campbell (@cc_unsilenced) 

👏 Brand of the Week (BOW) 

  • Target (@target) 

  • RSVLTS (@rsvlts) 

  • MBL (@mbl_official_) 

The Unfiltered Beauty of Influence with Katie Welch15 May 202401:00:33

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This week on the Creator Economy Live Podcast, we have a very special guest alongside Brendan and Keith, CMO of Rare Beauty, Katie Welch. She has been named Glossy’s Top Marketeer in 2022 and has been vital in the meteoric rise of Rare Beauty, the beauty products company founded by superstar musician and actress Selena Gomez. 

Katie shares her journey from agency to brand side, looking into the comparisons between traditional and creator-founded brands and the challenges facing influencer marketing agencies. From discussions on the state of influencer marketing agencies to the complexities of the $21 billion influencer industry, this episode provides a comprehensive exploration of the current landscape and what lies ahead for creators, brands, agencies and marketers. 

🐄 Creators of the Week (COW):   

Dermatologist Dr. Muneeb Shah (@doctorly) —better known to his 18 million TikTok followers as “DermDoctor”—has released a research-backed skincare brand called Remedy. 

Pedro the Racoon (@dailydancing_racoon) 

 Claire Saffitz (@csaffiz) and Cedric & Edith (@thcedlife) 

👏 Brand of the Week (BOW) 

Seed Health (@seed)  

In n Out (@innout)  

Poppi (@drinkpoppi) 

Crafting the Creator Legacy03 May 202401:06:50

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Join us this week on the Creator Economy Live Podcast as Keith and Brendan sit down with Ben Relles, a true titan of digital innovation. From his early days of comedy at YouTube to his groundbreaking innovations in content strategy at Reid Hoffman, Ben's journey is one of unparalleled influence. 

We explore the latest in the TikTok saga, from legislative maneuvers to ByteDance's looming deadline. Plus, dive into AirChat, the hot new app blending Twitter and Clubhouse dynamics. 

We also get into Ben’s current work with Reid Hoffman and what the future of the creator economy looks like with the influence of AI. 

🐄 Creators of the Week (COW): 

Olayemi (lie) Olurin (@msolurin) - Lawyer, activist, and YouTube creator Olayemi Olurin recently joined New York City Mayor Eric Adams on The Breakfast Club to discuss contentious issues like homelessness and incarceration in NYC, deemed by some as a pivotal interview. On her channel "Olurinatti," she offers analysis and hosts discussions spanning topics from affirmative action to the 2024 election. 

Reid Hoffman (@reidhoffman) - Ben Relles worked with Reid Hoffman to recently unveil an AI iteration of Reid, utilizing a custom GPT model trained on his extensive body of work to generate lifelike responses. This innovative technology, crafted by Hour One and ElevenLabs, impresses with its human-like gestures and intonation, marking a significant step in bridging the Uncanny Valley gap. 

Almost Friday - (@ almostfriday.tv) - Almost Friday is a media company known for managing popular social media accounts. Originating as a set of Instagram profiles, it rapidly gained traction for its relatable content in weekend culture, sports, music, and character-driven comedy. With a network of over 3.5 million followers, their brands like Friday Beers, Almost Friday, and others collectively garner hundreds of millions of monthly impressions. 

 

👏 Brand of the Week (BOW): 

John Deere (@johndeere) - They are hiring a “Chief Tractor Officer” for $200k to launch their TikTok channel (Jen Hartmann - PR & Enterprise Social)) 

Dude Wipes (@dudewipes) – They recently trended globally on Twitter, sponsored F1, made it to Bain’s insurgent brands list, and are gearing up for their inaugural national campaign – their momentum is undeniable. A special nod to Greg Baroth, their social media guru, credited for much of their success; their witty sponsorships and playful jabs at brands like Taco Bell and Chipotle are garnering attention and yielding results.

Navigating the Next Wave of Digital Influence 🌊 18 Apr 202401:17:02

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Tune in to this week's episode of the Creator Economy Live podcast, where hosts Keith Bendes and Brendan Gahan are joined by Jasmine Enberg, the esteemed creator economy analyst from eMarketer. Gain valuable insights into the evolving landscape as Jasmine shares her journey and perspectives since entering the industry. 


Explore the latest industry developments, from the ongoing Instagram Vs YouTube ad revenue discussion to the increasing role of AI within the creator economy. Additionally, discover LinkedIn's recent venture into short-form vertical video and uncover innovative B2B marketing strategies reshaping the platform. 

 

🐄 Creators of the Week (COW): 


- Cynthia Huang Wang (@cynthiamhuang) - Beauty & Lifestyle creator sharing life in SF as a corporate girlie, with past experiences at RealReal and Eat Just. 


- Swagdog697 - Dachshund on rooftop in Brooklyn playing keyboard set to music, with the same footage repurposed over and over to different songs, boasting 435k followers on IG. 


- Aerithgirl - A "niche tea lady" with 320,000 followers on TikTok. 



👏 Brand of the Week (BOW): 


- April Fools' standout brands including Dunkin, Duolingo, 7-Eleven, and Oura. 


- Athletic Brewing – the non-alcoholic beer that tastes just like... beer. 


- Kiehl’s, for bringing brand trips back to the conversation. 

This episode is sponsored by Linqia, the #1 influencer marketing partner for the world's leading brands. Having executed over 3,000 campaigns for more than 650 brands, Linqia combines technology powered by Google Vision AI with award-winning service to deliver measurable influencer results. Go to linqia.com or send a note to ⁠hello@linqia.com⁠ to speak with an influencer expert.


Sign up to our newsletter:  ⁠https://creatoreconomylive.com/newsletter⁠


This podcast is brought to you by the biggest event for influencer marketers in the US Creator Economy Live! Join Keith and Brendan live and in person as well as 100s of brands in Vegas on February 3-5 2025 for lively conversation and debate about everything in the world of influencer marketing and the creator economy.

Sky-High Social Strategy ✈️04 Apr 202401:12:01

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This week on the Creator Economy Live Podcast, we explore the intersections of creativity, influence, and innovation. Your hosts, Keith Bendes and Brendan Gahan, are joined by the former Head of Social at Ryanair, Michael Corcoran, now Managing Partner of Frankly. Dive into the essence of influencer marketing on LinkedIn with Brendan’s groundbreaking venture, Creator Authority, and get the inside scoop on the latest buzz, including the ongoing TikTok saga, MrBeast's Amazon collaboration, and more.


Join us as Michael talks us through his pivotal role in redefining Ryan Air's social media strategy, to his ambitious venture with Frankly, aiming to reshape the advertising world. Learn from our discussion on the cultural differences in advertising strategies between Europe and the US, as we explore how the right digital strategy can elevate a brand's journey!


🐄 Creators of the Week (COW):


  • Shelby Lattimore, the innovative third-grade teacher who revolutionized financial education in the classroom.

  • Jon Ronson, the acclaimed author, speaker, and documentarian, whose insightful exploration of public shaming in the digital age offers a timely reflection on the complexities of online culture.

  • Ben Gallagher, the strategic mind behind Luxe Collective's success, stepping up as CEO with a vision to redefine luxury branding in the social age.


👏 Brands of the Week (BOW):


  • Best Cereal by the Watchmen, the breakout sensation in the breakfast aisle, selling over 100k boxes in just two weeks with its unique blend of taste and storytelling.

  • Liquid Death X ELF, for their bold collaboration on Corpse Paint makeup, merging hydration with high fashion in a campaign that's as refreshing as it is rebellious.

  • Specsavers, for their eye-catching campaigns that prove the power of humor and relatability in brand communication, and a special nod to Tinder for its innovative approach to engaging users.

This episode is sponsored by Linqia, the #1 influencer marketing partner for the world's leading brands. Having executed over 3,000 campaigns for more than 650 brands, Linqia combines technology powered by Google Vision AI with award-winning service to deliver measurable influencer results. Go to linqia.com or send a note to hello@linqia.com to speak with an influencer expert.


Sign up to our newsletter:  https://creatoreconomylive.com/newsletter


This podcast is brought to you by the biggest event for influencer marketers in the US Creator Economy Live! Join Keith and Brendan live and in person as well as 100s of brands in Vegas on Febuary 3-5 2025 for lively conversation and debate about everything in the world of influencer marketing and the creator economy.

Marketing a Ghost Town19 Mar 202400:59:33

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Join us in this week’s episode of Creator Economy Live as we uncover the story of Brent Underwood, the visionary breathing new life into Cerro Gordo, a ghost town with a haunting history of silver mining and wild western lore. With a combined following of 5 million, Brent's cinematic storytelling has captured the imagination of millions, leading to a book deal that promises to reveal even more about his quest at the edge of Death Valley.


We also break records with the Streamer Awards, dive deep into the rise of PRIME's success, and navigate the fine line between initial traction and lasting success. Plus, don't miss our insightful discussion with Brent about the origins of his YouTube channel, the art of storytelling that keeps viewers hooked, his approach to community building, and the monetization strategies that have made Ghost Town Living a phenomenon!


🐄 Creators of the Week (COW):


- @alexisanddean

- Brent’s book 'Ghost Town Living' and dailydancing_Racoon

- Heavy d sparks


👏 Brands of the Week (BOW):

- Reddit's groundbreaking deal

- Uncle Nearest Whiskey's success story

- The unconventional charm of Black Sheep (Frog balls)



Unraveling the Fabric of Influence05 Mar 202401:00:18

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In this eye-opening episode of Creator Economy Live, we’re joined by special guest Shayna Macklin, Fractional CMO at Rainbow Shops. Shayna unveils the threads of her success in weaving a vibrant creator practice and a buzzing full-production studio. We're peeling back the layers of MrBeast's TIME cover fame, exploring OpenAI’s groundbreaking Sora, and dissecting Snapchat's fresh campaign stance. Plus, don't miss our candid chat on the shifting sands of influencer marketing as we step into 2024, where the blend of storytelling, brand integration, and community engagement promises to redefine influence. 

 

🐄 Creators of the Week (COW): 

  

Corporate Natalie - known for her insightful takes on the corporate grind. 

 

Humphrey Yang - the master explainer of complex economic concepts in digestible bits. 

 

Kristen Hollingshaus (@hauskris) - who shines with her unique blend of creativity and digital storytelling. 

 

👏 Brands of the Week (BOW):  

 

OpenAI - captures our imagination this week with its trailblazing technologies 

 

Ridge - receives a creative boost from Marques Brownlee who joins as Executive Board Member, Equity Investor, and Chief Creative Partner 

 

Celestial Seasonings - brings comfort and warmth to our cups, proving that brands can be both innovative and nurturing. 

This episode is sponsored by Linqia, the #1 influencer marketing partner for the world's leading brands. Having executed over 3,000 campaigns for more than 650 brands, Linqia combines technology powered by Google Vision AI with award-winning service to deliver measurable influencer results. Go to linqia.com or send a note to hello@linqia.com to speak with an influencer expert.

Sign up to our newsletter:  https://creatoreconomylive.com/newsletter

This podcast is brought to you by the biggest event for influencer marketers in the US Creator Economy Live! Join Keith and Brendan live and in person as well as 100s of brands in Vegas on February 3-5 2025 for lively conversation and debate about everything in the world of influencer marketing and the creator economy.

Episode 71: Jennifer Brown on How SHEIN Made Affordable Fashion a Global Influencer Machine16 Sep 202501:01:37

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Keith Bendes and Brendan Gahan sit down with Jennifer Brown, who has spent the past 6+ years leading influencer marketing and talent partnerships at fashion giant SHEIN. Jennifer pulls back the curtain on how SHEIN built one of the world’s most powerful creator-driven growth engines, the evolving role of short-form video, and how shopping behavior is shifting in a social-first era.

The Vitamins to Fuel a Winning Performance 20 Feb 202401:08:09

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This episode we’re joined by Lisa Chudnofsky, Chief Brand Officer at The Vitamin Shoppe, to discuss how the retailer leverages creators to elevate the brand, the role employees and personal play in campaigns as well as long-term ambassador relationships. PLUS; we dissect the touchdowns, fumbles, thrills, and spills of the Superbowl...and more importantly the role of creators in the marketing frenzy that surrounds the big game. 

 

🐄 Our Creators Of the Week (COW): 

John Allen – aka Mr Ballen – a former Navy Seal and True Crime YouTuber who founded the MrBallen Foundation, a nonprofit that awards honor grants of up to $25,000 to organizations supporting victims of violent crimes and their families. 

 

Mike Diva – Director and YouTuber who did a Super Bowl commercial for DoorDash.  

 

Jennifer Welch, Angie Pumps Sullivan – hosts of the ‘I’ve Had It’ podcast who make you feel you want to jump in and talk to them. Relatable, hilarious content which is super progressive and provides amazing entertainment. 

 

👏 Our Brands Of the Week (BOW) 

CeraVe – A brand that shows it really knows how to leverage creators and infiltrate culture through its hilarious Super Bowl campaign. really understands how to leverage creators and infiltrate culture 

 

Dunkin’ - Delivered an awesome Super Bowl ad with the right blend of nostalgia, celebrity and humor. 

 

Poppi – Fun brand with great ideas deserve a mention for the #bringsodaback campaign as well as imaginative brand activations and an awesome Super Bowl ad


This episode is sponsored by Linqia, the #1 influencer marketing partner for the world's leading brands. Having executed over 3,000 campaigns for more than 650 brands, Linqia combines technology powered by Google Vision AI with award-winning service to deliver measurable influencer results. Go to linqia.com or send a note to hello@linqia.com to speak with an influencer expert.


Sign up to our newsletter:  https://creatoreconomylive.com/newsletter


This podcast is brought to you by the biggest event for influencer marketers in the US Creator Economy Live! Join Keith and Brendan live and in person as well as 100s of brands in Vegas on Febuary 3-5 2025 for lively conversation and debate about everything in the world of influencer marketing and the creator economy

When Retail met Social07 Feb 202401:01:13

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This episode we’re joined by Mary Katherine (MK) Woltz who is Director of Media Connections at Danone (Motherbrand to household names inc. Evian, Oikos, Activia etc), to talk about the rise of retail media. We discuss MK's career journeyfrom influencer marketing to retail media and how the two fields overlap, as well as the rising trend of retail media and social partnerships. Tune in tolearn what the retail media boom may mean for brands, retailers and creators alike.


🐄 Our Creators Of the Week (COW):

School of Astonishing Pursuits – our very own Brendan Gahan has launched a course in partnership with Jason Bagley as part of the School of Astonishing Pursuits – the course aims to make sense of the chaos that is social and will cover topics including: developing a content strategy, career advice, frameworks and more

 

Creative Explained - the ‘Dave Grohl of plants’ creates fast-paced videos teaching hacks, tips and tricks, usually by yelling a whole bunch of knowledge on screen with swish and swoosh sound effects

 

Antony Hopkins - Hollywood legend runs an amazing TikTok page and deserves a shoutout!

 

 

👏 Our Brands Of the Week (BOW)

 

Bud Light - announced partnership with true brand advocate and controversial comedian Shane Gillis who currently boasts the largest podcast on Patreon.

 

Atria Books - the publisher sponsored Marc Sebastian’s 18-day voyage aboard Royal Caribbean’s nine-month “Ultimate World Cruise,” which has amassed more than 500 million views on TikTok.

 

Silk - Recently ran the Plenty Good challenge to encourage plant based consumption through an interesting range of creators and celebrities

This episode is sponsored by Linqia, the #1 influencer marketing partner for the world's leading brands. Having executed over 3,000 campaigns for more than 650 brands, Linqia combines technology powered by Google Vision AI with award-winning service to deliver measurable influencer results. Go to linqia.com or send a note to hello@linqia.com to speak with an influencer expert.

Sign up to our newsletter:  https://creatoreconomylive.com/newsletter

This podcast is brought to you by the biggest event for influencer marketers in the US Creator Economy Live! Join Keith and Brendan live and in person as well as 100s of brands in Vegas on Febuary 3-5 2025 for lively conversation and debate about everything in the world of influencer marketing and the creator economy.

This Barbie is... Live!30 Jan 202400:41:06

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This episode was recorded live at Creator Economy Live in Las Vegas. Keith and Brendan took to the stage with Lilly Briger Senior Lead of Creator Partnerships for Barbie & Dolls at Mattel to discuss THE campaign of 2023 and the run-up to ‘B-Day’. Lilly shares her learnings on creator partnerships, awareness vs perception, maximizing budgets as well as the differences in media vs product marketing.  

🐄 Our Creators Of the Week (COW): 

Sisa Quispe (@sisa_quispe) - An Indigenous woman of the Quechua Aymara tribe who shares content about preservation in native ways. 

MatPat – game theorist and big YouTuber who has elevated YouTube with thoughtful content and storytelling. 

Chris Corsini – Prominent YouTube astrologer who shares (scarily accurate) monthly horoscopes and monetizes his community via an interesting subscription model. 


👏 Our Brands Of the Week (BOW) 

Pop-Tarts – The viral stunt at the end of the Pop-Tart Bowl likely provided more media value for the brand than the whole investment in the game itself. 

AllTrails – Popular hiking trail app launched into ChatGPT making it even easier to source and create trails.  

Sephora – the ’teen and tween takeover’ - as seen on TikTok - is a testament to marketing (albeit terrifying) how they have managed to capture the hearts and minds of teens. 

This episode is sponsored by Linqia, the #1 influencer marketing partner for the world's leading brands. Having executed over 3,000 campaigns for more than 650 brands, Linqia combines technology powered by Google Vision AI with award-winning service to deliver measurable influencer results. Go to linqia.com or send a note to hello@linqia.com to speak with an influencer expert. 

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This podcast is brought to you by the biggest event for influencer marketers in the US Creator Economy Live! Join Keith and Brendan live and in person as well as 100s of brands in Vegas on Febuary 3-5 2025 for lively conversation and debate about everything in the world of influencer marketing and the creator economy. 

Own your Audience 09 Jan 202400:50:22

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Get ready for a new year of Creator Economy Live! Our first guest for 2024 is Sean Kim, President and Chief Product Officer at Kajabi. From TikTok to Kajabi, Sean has been at the forefront of creator monetization. Tune in as they discuss the future of the creator middle class, the biggest opportunities for monetization, and how Kajabi is supporting creators. PLUS; the decline of ad revenue, the rise of direct fan monetization and big 2024 predictions.

🐄 Our Creators Of the Week (COW): 

MrBeast + Chucky Appleby - teamed up with to launch ViewStats, a database of YouTube channel analytics. 

Jack Appleby – newsletter Future Social covers alot of intersection social media <> advertising. Has alot of unique and hot takes. 

Colin and Samir – Podcast creators who cover really relevant news on what is trending in the space.  

 

👏 Our Brands Of the Week (BOW) 

Albertsons – launched "Survive in a Grocery Store" in partnership with MrBeast. The episode features a contestant who wins $10,000 for each day he lives inside a Safeway store, provided he also chooses $10,000 worth of products to give to a local charity. 

Kajabi – launched a whole host of new products including Kajabi payments and Creator Studio (launching next month!) an AI tool which helps creators build out their whole marketing funnel

This episode is sponsored by Linqia, the #1 influencer marketing partner for the world's leading brands. Having executed over 3,000 campaigns for more than 650 brands, Linqia combines technology powered by Google Vision AI with award winning service to deliver measurable influencer results. Go to linqia.com or send a note to hello@linqia.com to speak with an influencer expert. 

Sign up to our newsletter:  

This podcast is brought to you by the biggest event for influencer marketers in the US Creator Economy Live! Join Keith and Brendan live and in person as well as 100s of brands in Vegas on January 17th for lively conversation and debate about everything in the world of influencer marketing and the creator economy. 

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