FOLLOW ME
By The Digital Dept.
FOLLOW MEApr 30, 2019
Reesa Lake, Head Of Creator Agency & Partnerships At LTK: The Power of Relationships In The Creator Economy & Best Practices For LTK
If you’ve been following us for a while, you know how much we love talking about LTK, which is why we’re so excited to be joined by Reesa Lake, VP of the Head of Creator Agency & Partnerships at LTK. We discuss her role in bringing economic opportunities to creators across various platforms, categories, and demographics.
Reesa is known for being a relationship builder and connector, and in our conversation, she highlights the power of networking and relationship-building in the creator economy. We also cover her shift from her previous agency to LTK, where she shares her advice for maintaining positive relationships when transitioning in the industry. Plus, for those interested in joining LTK, Reesa shares exactly what they look for when approving creators!
IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT:
- (10:09) LTK's collaboration with agents, managers, and creators
- (14:46) How to know when it's the right time to make a career transition
- (16:43) The importance of relationships and networking
- (25:00) What is LTK and its best creator practices?
- (30:47) The ways LTK can support you with diversifying your revenue
- (34:03) What Reesa looks for in creators applying to LTK
RESOURCES
- Learn more about Be Social Group
CONNECT WITH REESA
Follow Reesa on Instagram: @reesalake
CONNECT WITH ALI
Follow me on Instagram: @aligrant
Follow me on TikTok: @aligrnt
CONNECT WITH JESS
Follow me on Instagram: @jessyoowould
Follow me on TikTok: @jessyoowould
April Lockhart, Clean Beauty Expert, Inclusive Marketer & Lifestyle Creator: Transitioning From Corporate Girlie To Freelance Influencer
Today, we’re chatting with April Lockhart, a clean beauty expert, marketer, lifestyle creator, and former Director of Influencer & Partnerships at ILIA. With six years of experience in the influencer space, April has a deep understanding of social media marketing and how to inspire a digital audience. She is also a passionate advocate for disability awareness in fashion.
In our conversation, we discuss how April transformed her side hustle into a full-time career by combining her corporate background with her extensive experience in the beauty industry. We also unpack April’s content creation process and how she grew her multi-platform following.
IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT:
- (11:23) April's experience at ILIA as Director of Influencer & Partnerships
- (14:15) Advice for building an influencer community and aligning with brand values
- (20:36) Tips for leaving a corporate job to pursue freelance content creation
- (24:14) How April grew her following
- (28:41) The internet’s influence on April's confidence in sharing content as a disabled creator
RESOURCES
- Learn more about Be Social Group
CONNECT WITH APRIL
Follow April on Instagram: @aprillockhart
Follow April on TikTok: @april_lockhart
Subscribe to April on Youtube: @april_lockhart
CONNECT WITH ALI
Follow me on Instagram: @aligrant
Follow me on TikTok: @aligrnt
CONNECT WITH JESS
Follow me on Instagram: @jessyoowould
Follow me on TikTok: @jessyoowould
Callen Hamilton, Founder Of Sway Social: Mastering Affiliate Marketing & Building A Collaborative Team
Today, we are joined by Callen Hamilton, founder of Sway Social and a long-time collaborator, to discuss the world of influencer project management, adjusting to the algorithm, and affiliate marketing. With her extensive experience working with creators, Callen highlights the importance of building a collaborative team to grow your brand.
In our conversation, Callen emphasizes that consistency, authenticity, and prioritizing engagement over follower count are crucial aspects of being a successful digital creator. We also explore the keys to affiliate marketing, why it's an essential strategy for creators, and how to get the most out of LTK. From micro to macro creators, Callen shares valuable insights that can elevate your brand to new heights!
IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT:
- (5:19) How we connected with Callen, and why she believes strong relationships with management companies are vital for success
- (9:22) Recognizing your strength as a creator and outsourcing the weak areas to drive growth
- (13:24) Seeking opportunities for improvement as a leader and the importance of overcommunication with your teams
- (19:50) Strategies Sway Social uses to assist clients in their Instagram growth
- (25:57) Tips for affiliate marketing and utilizing LTK
- (34:56) The criteria Callen considers when selecting clients to work with
RESOURCES
- Learn more about Be Social Group
CONNECT WITH CALLEN
Follow Callen on Instagram: @callenboyer
Follow Sway Social on Instagram: @theswaysocial
Learn more about Sway Social: theswaysocial.com
CONNECT WITH ALI
Follow me on Instagram: @aligrant
Follow me on TikTok: @aligrnt
CONNECT WITH JESS
Follow me on Instagram: @jessyoowould
Follow me on TikTok: @jessyoowould
Jenny Park, Leader Of Brand Partnerships At LinkedIn: How To Craft Your Brand Niche & Make Six Figures As A Micro-Creator
When Jenny Park was rejected by the Forbes 30 Under 30 list, she set out to create her own opportunities. Now, she is a personal finance content creator and leader of brand partnerships at LinkedIn, collaborating with high-profile talents like Ryan Reynolds, Mindy Kaling, and Mr. Beast. Jenny joins us today to discuss how she bridges the gap between creation, storytelling, and operations at LinkedIn while balancing her content creation side hustle.
In our conversation, she highlights LinkedIn as a valuable tool for recruiting and fact-checking during the hiring process. Jenny uses TikTok content creation as a creative outlet, and she shares her tips for juggling a full-time job with being a content creator, increasing creator marketplace interest, and making six figures in brand partnerships as a micro creator.
IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT:
- (6:31) Jenny's background in brand building as it relates to her current position at LinkedIn
- (12:56) Using LinkedIn for recruiting and fact-checking during the hiring process
- (17:56) How LinkedIn collaborates with brands, high-profile creators, and entrepreneurs
- (19:36) Jenny’s experience juggling a full-time job while being a content creator
- (22:16) Tools for streamlining your content editing
- (30:42) Advice for generating huge earnings as a micro-creator
RESOURCES
- Learn more about Be Social Group
CONNECT WITH JENNY
Follow Jenny on Tiktok: @mohaewithjennypark
Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn
CONNECT WITH ALI
Follow me on Instagram: @aligrant
Follow me on TikTok: @aligrnt
CONNECT WITH JESS
Follow me on Instagram: @jessyoowould
Follow me on TikTok: @jessyoowould
Chelsea Becker, Founder Of Becker Editorial: Going Behind-The-Scenes Of Your Favorite Influencer’s Instagram Feed
In this episode, we have the pleasure of chatting with Chelsea Becker, the founder of Becker Editorial, to unpack the behind-the-scenes content curation of your favorite creators. Becker Editorial specializes in helping creators, influencers, and small brands grow by planning their digital content, strategizing Instagram feeds, aligning creativity with their goals, and much more.
In our conversation, Chelsea highlights her organization and collaboration techniques that drive brand success. She emphasizes the importance of investing time in your business, being consistent with audience engagement, and delegating tasks to those who know them best. Plus, Chelsea lets us in on the benefits of using Pinterest in your business strategy and ways to make your email newsletters shine.
IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT:
(6:21) The ways Becker Editorial assists influencers, creators, and brands
(9:28) How Chelsea works and communicates with her clients
(12:24) Why you should have a website or blog in addition to your social media
(18:07) Tools for effectively managing time while juggling multiple clients
(19:25) Tips for incorporating Pinterest into your brand strategy
(26:06) Advice for being a collaborative and successful creator across all platforms
RESOURCES
- Learn more about Be Social Group
CONNECT WITH CHELSEA
Follow Chelsea on Instagram: @chelseambecker
Follow Becker Editorial on Instagram: @beckereditorial
Work with Becker Editorial: becker-editorial.com
CONNECT WITH ALI
Follow me on Instagram: @aligrant
Follow me on TikTok: @aligrnt
CONNECT WITH JESS
Follow me on Instagram: @jessyoowould
Follow me on TikTok: @jessyoowould
Maddie Raedts, Creative Entrepreneur & Founder Of Bond: Disrupting The Traditional Commerce Model Of Influencer Marketing
Maddie Raedts, a creative entrepreneur who launched her first company at 21 and is now working on her new venture, Bond, joins us today to discuss her career in entrepreneurship and her goal of revolutionizing influencer marketing.
Maddie introduced Bond to disrupt the traditional commerce model. In our conversation, Maddie breaks down the details of starting your own company and how taking risks to follow a career in alignment with your passion can have major results. She walks us through the steps of selling a successful agency, the challenges of developing her new app, and how diversifying revenue streams can make you money in your sleep.
IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT:
- (5:30) Maddie's journey into influencer marketing and where she got the idea for her agency
- (8:49) Maddie’s experience in selling her business
- (11:56) The qualities that set Bond apart from the rest of the market
- (14:04) Diversifying revenue streams for passive income
- (19:57) The challenges of introducing Bond to the world of influencer marketing
- (23:58) Advice for pursuing your passion in creative entrepreneurship
RESOURCES
- Learn more about Be Social Group
CONNECT WITH MADDIE
Follow Maddie on Instagram: @maddieraedts
Follow Bond on Instagram: @join.bond
Join Bond: joinbond.com
CONNECT WITH ALI
Follow me on Instagram: @aligrant
Follow me on TikTok: @aligrnt
CONNECT WITH JESS
Follow me on Instagram: @jessyoowould
Follow me on TikTok: @jessyoowould
Dianna Cohen, Founder Of Crown Affair: Navigating Influencer Marketing To Build Your Brand
On today's episode, we’re chatting with our new haircare bestie, Dianna Cohen! She is the founder and CEO of Crown Affair, a haircare brand empowering people to redefine their relationship with their hair through accessible luxury products, guidance, and community. In our conversation, Dianna shares her journey building the brand and her approach to managing a team.
With her extensive experience in marketing, including running an agency and working with brands such as Harry’s, Outdoor Voices, and Yumi, Dianna provides valuable insights into the world of entrepreneurship and influencer marketing. Dianna launched Crown Affair just weeks before the pandemic hit, and she opens up about how it impacted the foundations and evolution of her brand. As a leader, Dianna takes a realistic, empathetic, and feminine approach that fosters trust within her team and empowers them to learn and grow so they’ll thrive in whatever they do next.
IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT:
- Engagement on Instagram vs. TikTok
- How the pandemic impacted Dianna's brand launch
- Utilizing influencer marketing for product promotion
- Tips for engaging directly and vulnerably with your consumers
- Dianna's unique mentorship program
- Ways to foster trust within your team and empower them to make decisions
- The benefits of a hybrid work environment when building a brand
- Dianna’s realistic and empathetic leadership approach
- Advice for transitioning from masculine to feminine energy
CONNECT WITH DIANNA
Follow Dianna on Instagram: @diannacohen
Follow Crown Affair on Instagram: @crownaffair
Follow Crown Affair on TikTok: @crownaffair
Check out the Crown Affair products: crownaffair.com
CONNECT WITH ALI
Follow me on Instagram: @aligrant
Follow me on TikTok: @aligrnt
CONNECT WITH JESS
Follow me on Instagram: @jessyoowould
Follow me on TikTok: @jessyoowould
Jules Acree, Digital Creator & Founder Of The Homebodies: The Value Of Diversifying Your Online Platforms
In the current digital space, it's more crucial than ever before to diversify your online brand and develop multiple revenue streams, because you never know if platforms like Instagram or TikTok will suddenly shut down. Today we're joined by Jules Acree, a multi-platform digital content creator and entrepreneur, as she shares her insights on mindfulness, creating digital products, and focusing on steady and sustainable growth as a creator.
In our conversation, Jules reminds us that success looks different for everyone, and the most important aspect of digital creation is finding alignment, passion, and fulfillment in your social media presence. Plus, with almost a decade of online experience under her belt, Jules shares her expert advice for moments when you’re feeling uninspired or you need to unplug from social media.
IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT:
- Tips for getting started with meditation and implementing cycles into your daily routine
- The ways Jules unplugs from social media
- Jules’ journey into the creator economy
- Reaching financial milestones through passive income from digital products
- The importance of being excited by the content you’re creating
- How Jules works with a team and a manager to maintain her brand
- Finding alignment while evolving and diversifying as a creator
RESOURCES
CONNECT WITH JULES
Follow Jules on Instagram: @julesacree
Follow The Homebodies on Instagram: @thehomebodiesco
Follow Jules on TikTok: @julesacree
Subscribe to Jules on Youtube: @julesacree
Learn more and find her digital products on Jules’ website: julesacree.com
CONNECT WITH ALI
Follow me on Instagram: @aligrant
Follow me on TikTok: @aligrnt
CONNECT WITH JESS
Follow me on Instagram: @jessyoowould
Follow me on TikTok: @jessyoowould
Taylor Loren, Content Creator & Social Strategist: How To Grow Your Instagram & Use The Algorithm To Your Advantage
Between the dwindling follower counts and unpredictable engagement, Instagram is one of the most frustrating platforms for creators right now. We invited social strategist Taylor Loren onto the pod to learn about how to cut through the noise on Reels and grow on Instagram.
Taylor is the brilliant mind behind @reelstips, which she organically grew to 230k+ followers in just a few months, and she also has a Reels course that’s helped hundreds of Instagram users expand their reach. In our conversation, Taylor gives us a peek into what we can expect from the course and shares sage advice for anyone who’s self-employed.
IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT:
- The most effective way to reach new people on Instagram
- The not-so-secret formula for Reels
- Taylor’s hot take on the future of IG Stories
- Reels and main feed strategies for aesthetic creators
- The ups and downs of leaving corporate and starting your own business
- How to practice an abundant mindset, even when the deals start slowing down
RESOURCES
- Scarcity by Sendhil Mullainathan and Eldar Shafir
- Learn more about Be Social Group
CONNECT WITH TAYLOR
Follow Taylor on Instagram: @taylor.loren
Follow Taylor on TikTok: @taylor_loren_
Follow Taylor’s Reels Tips, Trends & Tutorials: @reelstips
Learn more on Taylor’s website: taylorloren.co
CONNECT WITH ALI
Follow me on Instagram: @aligrant
Follow me on TikTok: @aligrnt
CONNECT WITH JESS
Follow me on Instagram: @jessyoowould
Follow me on TikTok: @jessyoowould
Trend Report: 3 Ways To Make Money As An Influencer
There are three main ways to monetize your social media following: in-app, external apps, and brand collaborations. In this episode, I touch on how to flex into each area and diversify your revenue as a content creator. Some of these approaches are more lucrative than others, but the idea is to be in the driver’s seat of your personal brand and maximize what each platform has to offer.
IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT:
- The first step to making money on social media
- Different features of TikTok’s Creator Fund program
- What to do if your application wasn’t accepted on LTK
- The benefits of being a user-generated content (UGC) creator
RESOURCES
- Learn more about Be Social Group
CONNECT WITH ALI
Follow me on Instagram: @aligrant
Follow me on TikTok: @aligrnt
CONNECT WITH JESS
Follow me on Instagram: @jessyoowould
Follow me on TikTok: @jessyoowould
Kinya Clairborne, Founder & Editor-in-Chief of STYLE & SOCIETY Magazine: How To Diversify Your Skillset As An Influencer
Kinya Clairborne is an award-winning content creator and the founder and editor-in-chief of STYLE & SOCIETY Magazine. Not only is she an amazing example of how to transition from corporate girlie to full-time influencer, but she’s also managed to heavily diversify her brand and work with big names like Honda, Macy’s, and L’Oreal.
In our conversation, we talk about how to translate your social following into something more concrete that you own, like an email list or a product line. Kinya also turns the mic back to us and asks about our perspective on outbound versus incoming deals and what we think about influencers working with both agents and managers.
IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT:
Why jumping around to different agencies can hurt you as a content creator
The turning point for Kinya that inspired her to go all-in on being a content creator
Examples of what it looks like to diversify your skillset as an influencer
Why we’re sick of exclusivity clauses
Questions to ask yourself before partnering with a manger
Our #1 piece of advice for all content creators
RESOURCES
Learn more about Be Social Group
CONNECT WITH KINYA
Follow Kinya on Instagram: @kinyaclaiborne
Follow Kinya on TikTok: @kinyaclaiborne
Follow STYLE & SOCIETY on Instagram: @styleandsociety
Become a STYLE & SOCIETY Insider: styleandsociety.com
CONNECT WITH ALI
Follow me on Instagram: @aligrant
Follow me on TikTok: @aligrnt
CONNECT WITH JESS
Follow me on Instagram: @jessyoowould
Follow me on TikTok: @jessyoowould
Rocsi Diaz, Emmy-Winning TV Host & Content Creator: Adapting To Changes In New Media
Rocsi Diaz is best known for hosting major network shows like BET’s 106 & Park and ABC’s Good Morning America, but she’s stepping into a new chapter of her career as a content creator and brand founder. In our conversation, Rocsi looks back on her career highlights and shares how she’s taking those experiences into her latest ventures: a podcast and a product line. Rocsi also gives advice to influencers who want to be red carpet correspondents or make a name for themselves in traditional media.
IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT:
How to know when it’s time to pivot in your career
Tips for connecting with your audience while also staying authentic to yourself
The secret to being a great interviewer
How event coverage and celebrity news has changed with the rise of pop culture content creators
Rocsi’s vision for her upcoming podcast and bronzing product line
RESOURCES
Learn more about Be Social Group
CONNECT WITH ROCSI
Follow Rocsi on Instagram: @rocsidiaz
Follow Rocsi on TikTok: @rocsidiaz
CONNECT WITH ALI
Follow me on Instagram: @aligrant
Follow me on TikTok: @aligrnt
CONNECT WITH JESS
Follow me on Instagram: @jessyoowould
Follow me on TikTok: @jessyoowould
Siffat Haider, Co-Founder & Co-CEO Of Arrae: What Makes A Successful Influencer Marketing Campaign
Siffat Haider, co-founder of the natural supplements brand Arrae, joins us on this episode to unpack the ‘it factor’ that drives her company’s success. She walks us through exactly how she launched a DTC brand and what her day-to-day looks like now that it’s really taken off.
Siffat has such a unique perspective on influencer marketing as someone who’s both a content creator and founder, and she shares her top advice for people on both sides of those deals. We also get into strategies for community-led marketing and talk about the trend of de-influencing.
IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT:
What prompted Siffat to explore the world of holistic medicine
The benefits of soft launching a product
How Siffat created an influencer marketing campaign with a tiny budget
Key marketing advice for brand owners and influencers
The division of labor between Siffat and her co-founder (who also happens to be her husband)
RESOURCES
Learn more about Be Social Group
CONNECT WITH SIFFAT
Follow Siffat: @siffhaider
Follow Arrae: @arrae.co
Shop Arrae: arrae.com
Listen to The Dream Bigger Podcast
CONNECT WITH ALI
Follow me on Instagram: @aligrant
Follow me on TikTok: @aligrnt
CONNECT WITH JESS
Follow me on Instagram: @jessyoowould
Follow me on TikTok: @jessyoowould
Jennifer Walker, Co-Founder of Walker Drawas: Setting The Standard For Experiential Marketing With Coachella, Revolve Festival & More
Jennifer Walker, co-founder of Walker Drawas, joins us on this episode to chat about her career evolution from VP of PR and Marketing at AllSaints to now spearheading some of the most epic experiential marketing campaigns, including VIP Coachella parties and Revolve Festival.
Jennifer reflects on how she’s worked through some of the biggest challenges in her career and shares her advice for balancing motherhood and business. Plus, she lets us in on what a day in her life looks like and what we can expect from her agency in the future.
IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT:
How to set expectations with brands that don't “get” influencer marketing
What inspired Jennifer to team up with Adam Drawas to create a full-service entertainment marketing agency
Ways that Jennifer and her team continue to innovate at Coachella
What self-care and work-life boundaries look like for Jennifer nowadays
Exploring opportunities outside of fashion, including hospitality and nightlife
RESOURCES
Learn more about Be Social Group
CONNECT WITH JENNIFER
Follow Jennifer: @_jennifer_walker_
Follow Walker Drawas: @walkerdrawas
Learn more about Walker Drawas: www.walkerdrawas.com
CONNECT WITH ALI
Follow me on Instagram: @aligrant
Follow me on TikTok: @aligrnt
CONNECT WITH JESS
Follow me on Instagram: @jessyoowould
Follow me on TikTok: @jessyoowould
Kira Jackson, Head Of Partnerships At RX3 Growth Partners: Bridging The Gap Between Marketing & Venture Capital
In our conversation, Kira talks about her transition from public relations to private equity and what her day-to-day looks like on the value-add team. She shares the tools that help her sell her vision and articulate it in a quantitative way, which helps bridge the gap between marketing and investors. Plus, Kira highlights her tips for influencers who want to start a brand and raise capital for it.
IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT:
The best way to start developing content and finding your niche
What sparked Kira’s interest in the venture capital world
Why Kira believes that value-add investing and differentiated capital are more important now than ever before
Where you can really leverage talent and have it impact the bottom line
Taking the temperature on how VCs feel about influencer-backed brands
RESOURCES
Lemon8 App
Semrush
Spate
Lefty
Ren
Learn more about Be Social Group
CREATORS MENTIONED
@katiewelch
@orenmeetsworld
@maggiesellers_
@clothesconscience
@chamberlaincoffee
CONNECT WITH KIRA
Follow Kira on Instagram: @kiramackenzie
Follow Kira on TikTok: @kiramackenz
Learn more about RX3 Growth Partners: rx3growthpartners.com
CONNECT WITH ALI
Follow me on Instagram: @aligrant
Follow me on TikTok: @aligrnt
CONNECT WITH JESS
Follow me on Instagram: @jessyoowould
Follow me on TikTok: @jessyoowould
Lindsay Silberman, Content Creator & Founder Of Hotel Lobby Candle: How To Start A Products-Based Business
Lindsay Silberman, luxury lifestyle blogger and founder of Hotel Lobby Candle, joins us on this episode to walk through exactly how she went from brand ideation to a sold out launch in under a year. She shares how she got started with finding the right designer, fragrance chemist, and manufacturer, and how she overcame the many roadblocks along the way (read: launching a products-based business during a global pandemic).
If you're trying to figure out what type of product makes sense for your personal brand and want to learn more about the tangible steps to bring it to life, don’t miss this conversation with Lindsay!
IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT:
The tipping point for Lindsay to leave her editorial job and go all-in on being a content creator
How Lindsay figured out business logistics as a newbie in the space
The factors that contributed to Lindsay selling out her entire inventory in 24 minutes
How Lindsay and her team are getting more strategic as they scale
Learning to delegate and get out of your own way as a business owner
A peek into what’s next for Hotel Lobby Candle, including new products coming out later this year
RESOURCES
Learn more about Be Social Group
CONNECT WITH LINDSAY
Follow Lindsay on Instagram: @lindsaysilb
Follow Hotel Lobby Candle: @hotellobbycandle
Shop Hotel Lobby Candle: hotellobbycandle.com
Learn more on Lindsay’s website: lindsaysilberman.com
CONNECT WITH ALI
Follow me on Instagram: @aligrant
Follow me on TikTok: @aligrnt
CONNECT WITH JESS
Follow me on Instagram: @jessyoowould
Follow me on TikTok: @jessyoowould
Trend Report: Getting Verified On Meta
Meta just rolled out the new Meta Verified feature (aka the blue checkmark), which was once reserved for top celebs, influencers, and brands, but can now be on your profile for $14.99/month. We’re breaking down the enhanced features and exclusive extras that the subscription offers, and share our take on if creators should invest in it or not.
IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT:
What Meta Verified is
How Meta Verified changes the meaning and value of blue checkmarks
The backstory of how to get verified on IG
The benefits of Meta Verified for creators
Our thoughts on if TikTok and Snapchat are going to launch similar features
RESOURCES
Learn more about Be Social Group
CONNECT WITH ALI
Follow me on Instagram: @aligrant (and see my new blue checkmark!)
Follow me on TikTok: @aligrnt
CONNECT WITH JESS
Follow me on Instagram: @jessyoowould
Follow me on TikTok: @jessyoowould
James Nord, Co-Founder of Fohr: Why Ambassadorship Is The Future Of Influencer Marketing
One of the biggest pain points of the creator economy is the lack of stability and predictable income. But, it doesn’t have to be that way.
We’re joined by James Nord, the co-founder of Fohr, a tech company at the forefront of ambassador marketing. They’ve been the go-to campaign platform for years and have a real touch point on beauty programs, most notably Sephora Squad.
In our conversation, James explains why the team at Fohr has really dialed into the long-term ambassador marketing strategy. We talk about getting back to the roots of authenticity and what makes influencer marketing actually work. He also gives some insight into how to stand out in a crowded market and explains why it pays off to deliver bonus content.
IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT:
James’ introduction to influencer marketing in the mid-2000s
The story behind Sephora Squad
How to get on a brand’s radar and be considered for a campaign
Why Fohr doesn’t offer single-post campaigns
The easiest way to retain and grow your brand relationships
RESOURCES
2023 Sephora Squad Applications: sephorasquad.com
Learn more about Be Social Group
CONNECT WITH JAMES
Follow James: @jamesnord
Follow Fohr: @fohr.co
Work with Fohr: fohr.co
Listen to Negoris with Nord
CONNECT WITH ALI
Follow me on Instagram: @aligrant
Follow me on TikTok: @aligrnt
CONNECT WITH JESS
Follow me on Instagram: @jessyoowould
Follow me on TikTok: @jessyoowould
Trend Report: E-Commerce For Creators With Pontus Karlsson
Marketplace e-commerce is considered the future of retail, but up until recently, it’s mainly been available to major stars like Gwyneth Paltrow and Kourtney Kardashian. Now, there’s a way for content creators to cash in on the trend, too.
Pontus Karlsson is the founder of Off Script, an easy solution for creators to build a curated marketplace selling products from multiple brands. We recently caught up with him to talk about how Off Script is changing the way creators approach affiliate marketing and sell natively on social channels.
IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT:
The inspiration behind Off Script
Off Script as the middle ground between affiliate marketing and having your own product line
Current e-commerce trends and retail industry forecasts
The reality of what influencers make on LTK and Amazon Storefront
How creators can work with Off Script
RESOURCES
Learn more about Be Social Group
CONNECT WITH PONTUS
Follow Pontus: @coolastekatten
Learn more about Off Script: offscript.io
Work with Off Script: pontus@offscript.io
CONNECT WITH ALI
Follow me on Instagram: @aligrant
Follow me on TikTok: @aligrnt
CONNECT WITH JESS
Follow me on Instagram: @jessyoowould
Follow me on TikTok: @jessyoowould
Cynthia Ruff, Founder Of HashTag Pay Me: The Art & Science Of Getting Paid
As a creator, one of the hardest questions to get a straight answer for is: “how much should I charge?”
That’s where Cynthia Ruff comes in. After years of wingin’ it and piecing together her personal rates, she created HashTag Pay Me, the only tool that helps creators streamline their brand outreach process.
We chat with Cynthia on all things startup capital, building credibility as a content creator, and how HashTag Pay Me works. She breaks down how she uses her ‘fairy math’ method to rethink corporate compensation tools that create a more transparent, even playing field for creators.
She also shares what’s next for the platform, including conversion metrics, networking features, and a digital app.
IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT:
The current startup loan landscape and the SVB of it all
Challenges in getting traditional investors to understand pain points in the creator economy
Updating what it means to be ‘recession-proof’
Why whitelisting is a double-edged sword and how to make sure you’re appropriately compensated
How to use HashTag Pay Me to confidently set your rate and back it up with data
RESOURCES
Check out All-In Podcast
Learn more about Be Social Group
CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA
Follow Cynthia: @cynthiahruff
Follow HashTag Pay Me: @hashtagpayme
Get started with HashTag Pay Me: hashtagpayme.com
CONNECT WITH ALI
Follow me on Instagram: @aligrant
Follow me on TikTok: @aligrnt
CONNECT WITH JESS
Follow me on Instagram: @jessyoowould
Follow me on TikTok: @jessyoowould
Pamela Zapata, CEO & Founder Of Society 18: How To Be A Talent Manager
Pamela Zapata, CEO and founder of Society 18, takes us behind the scenes of what it’s *really* like to be a talent manager. After working in major branding, marketing, and casting departments, Pamela noticed a pattern with BIPOC influencers: they were mostly self-representing and leaving a lot of money on the table in doing so. She shares how she turned her consulting side hustle into a seven-figure agency and gives her top advice for anyone who wants to follow a similar path.
IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT:
- How Pamela draws on her professional experiences across various industries
- The steps Pamela took to leave her corporate job and go all-in on her own agency
- Tips for finding brands to pitch to for your clients
- What questions talent should ask potential managers (and vice versa)
- The insights and metrics Pamela and her team look at before signing with a creator
- The pros and cons of short-term trials
- Why is it so hard to get paid on time in this industry?!
RESOURCES
- Learn more about Be Social Group
CONNECT WITH PAMELA
Follow Pamela: @pamelazapataFollow Society 18: @society18
Learn more about Society 18: society18.com
CONNECT WITH ALI
Follow me on Instagram: @aligrant
Follow me on TikTok: @aligrnt
CONNECT WITH JESS
Follow me on Instagram: @jessyoowould
Follow me on TikTok: @jessyoowould
Ashley Villa, CEO of Rare Global: How To Create A Personal Brand With Lasting Power
As CEO and founder of Rare Global, Ashley Villa and her team manage top influencers like Michelle Phan, Jenn Im, Chloe Morello, and Nicol Concilio.
In our conversation, we get into how Ashley transitioned from corporate attorney to talent manager and has since scaled Rare Global into the only female-owned, female-run talent management company in the digital space. She breaks down what a talent manager does, including how they facilitate collaborations with dream brands and help campaigns come to life.
Ashley is also the co-founder of Sireni Beauty and takes us behind the scenes of what it’s like to get a sustainable beauty brand off the ground (including the hefty start up costs).
Listen in to hear more of Ashley’s expertise on working with the next generation of talent and creating brands with lasting power.
IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT:
- Rapid Fire: Legal Edition
- How brand campaigns have evolved since the start of influencer marketing
- Common mistakes Ashley sees inexperienced managers make
- What it looks like to help a client with a rebrand
- How creators typically get paid for capsule collections
- Ashley’s thoughts on the battle between TikTok, Reels, and Youtube Shorts
- Advice for people who want to break into the influencer management industry
RESOURCES
- Learn more about Be Social Group
- Follow Torrie: @torrbelle
- eMinutes
- Coastal Homestead
CONNECT WITH ASHLEY
Follow Ashley: @ashleyrachel
Follow Rare Global: @rareglobal
Work with Rare Global: rare.global
Follow Sireni Beauty: @sirenibeauty
Shop Sireni Beauty: sirenibeauty.com
CONNECT WITH ALI
Follow me on Instagram: @aligrant
Follow me on TikTok: @aligrnt
CONNECT WITH JESS
Follow me on Instagram: @jessyoowould
Follow me on TikTok: @jessyoowould
Creator, Candice Nikeia: Why Practicing Daily Affirmations Will Turn Your Dreams Into Reality
Manifestation Coach and LA-based influencer, Candice Nikeia, joins us on this episode to break down the basics of affirmations and manifestation. She shares actionable steps for transforming your mindset and becoming an energetic match for your personal and professional goals. Candice also gets real about the disparities for BIPOC content creators and what tools she uses to work through those deep-rooted challenges.
IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT:
- Why it’s key to say your affirmations out loud
- Tangible examples of the power of visualization and affirmations
- Candice’s inspired morning routine
- What self-concept is and how you can use it to discover more opportunities
- How to organically incorporate brand deals into your content
- Building a community around your brand
RESOURCES
- Learn more about Be Social Group
- The State of Creator Guided Shopping
- The Five Minute Journal
- Neville Goddard's work
- Thewizardliz on Youtube
CONNECT WITH CANDICE
Follow me on Instagram: @candicenikeia
Follow me on TikTok: @candicenikeia
Follow my Daily Affirmations Instagram: @dailyaffirmationswithcandice
Subscribe to my Youtube channel: @candicenikeia
CONNECT WITH ALI
Follow me on Instagram: @aligrant
Follow me on TikTok: @aligrnt
CONNECT WITH JESS
Follow me on Instagram: @jessyoowould
Follow me on TikTok: @jessyoowould
Trend Report: ROI on Superbowl Advertisements
Torrie subs in for Jess because she is at NYFW (fancy!!) to chit chat about the Superbowl. We aren't talking sports though... we are unpacking our favorite ads and the ROI behind running an ad of that magnitude. I mean, we obviously have to talk about the Jennifer Coolidge and E.L.F. ad, am I right?! It's a quickie... so we hope you enjoy!
IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT:
- Football (LOL)...jk we don't
- Superbowl advertising and the ROI
- Jennifer Coolidge and the infamous E.L.F. ad
- Rihanna's performance
RESOURCES
- Learn more about Be Social Group
CONNECT WITH ALI
Follow me on Instagram: @aligrant
Follow me on TikTok: @aligrnt
Becca Tilley: Updating Your Content Creation Strategy In A New Generation Of Social Media
She is back! A lot has happened since Becca Tilley was last on the podcast, so as a long-time client of Be Social, we thought it was a good time to see how Becca has evolved as an influencer over the last few years, how she creates content in a fast-changing social media landscape and what she has planned for the near future.
IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT:
- Becca’s influencer tips & theory about Instagram Stories
- How Becca is tackling her content creation in a new wave of social media
- How she determines what she does and does not document for social media
- Becca’s plans for her podcast, Scrubbing In
- How she approaches brand deals
- A quick game of This or That: Alix Earle edition
RESOURCES
- Shop Becca’s favorite looks HERE
- Learn more about Be Social Group
CONNECT WITH BECCA
Follow me on Instagram: @beccatilley
Follow me on TikTok: @beccatilley5
Listen to my podcast, Scrubbing In
CONNECT WITH ALI
Follow me on Instagram: @aligrant
Follow me on TikTok: @aligrnt
CONNECT WITH JESS
Follow me on Instagram: @jessyoowould
Follow me on TikTok: @jessyoowould
Trend Report: Brand Trips & Our Take On @tartecosmetics Dubai Trip
One of our favorite influencer trends are BRAND TRIPS! These are a hot topic right now––primarily because of the extravagant Tarte Cosmetics trip to Dubai. So today, Jess and I are breaking down our take on brand trips and why they are such an effective marketing strategy. We also cover the best ways to approach creating a brand experience if you’re a smaller brand and feel intimidated by these large, luxury experiences. This is a fun one––we hope you love it!
IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT:
- Our take on how Tarte Cosmetics pulled off their extravagant Dubai trip
- Why experiences give brands more bang for their buck
- How this model has been around for decades
- How to approach creating an experience for influencers (as a smaller brand)
RESOURCES
- Check out the @tartecosmetics Dubai brand trip on TikTok
- Learn more about Be Social Group
CONNECT WITH ALI
Follow me on Instagram: @aligrant
Follow me on TikTok: @aligrnt
CONNECT WITH JESS
Follow me on Instagram: @jessyoowould
Follow me on TikTok: @jessyoowould
Thu Do: From Corporate Girly To Full-Time Freelancer & Influencer
Thu Do is a corporate cutie turned full-time freelancer and influencer, so truly, she is living the best of both worlds. Previously employed at notable brands like Benefit and Summer Fridays, Thu now owns her own brand consulting business, That’s Over Budget, in addition to creating content full-time on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube. In our conversation, Thu gives us tips for how to take the leap from corporate to freelance, how to best set expectations with your peers and superiors in a corporate environment, which platform brings in the most money for her and so much more!
IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT:
- Why she felt the pull to leave her corporate career
- How she took the leap and got started as a freelancer and influencer
- How she grew to over 20k followers in 2 months on TikTok
- Hot or Not: Social Media Platform Edition
RESOURCES
- Shop Thu’s favorite things HERE
- Learn more about her consulting business, That’s Over Budget
- Learn more about Be Social Group
CONNECT WITH THU
Follow me on Instagram: @lazygirlglam
Follow me on TikTok: @lazygirlglam22
Check out lazygirlglam.com
CONNECT WITH ALI
Follow me on Instagram: @aligrant
Follow me on TikTok: @aligrnt
CONNECT WITH JESS
Follow me on Instagram: @jessyoowould
Follow me on TikTok: @jessyoowould
Trend Report: $100 Million In The YouTube Shorts Creator Fund
Welcome to our new segment, Trend Report! As you know, the digital and social media landscapes are changing constantly. It’s hard to keep up, but that’s why we’ve created this segment. As professionals who live and breathe social media, it’s our job to keep you up to date. So today, we’re talking about the exciting launch of the YouTube Shorts Creators Fund for 2023 and how you can get a piece of that $100 million pie.
IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT:
- The purpose of the Creator Fund
- How Jess got inside info to stand out on YouTube Shorts
- The best app to remove watermarks on short form videos
- Ali’s funny (but actually sad) story about TikTok & Be Social Group
RESOURCES
- Learn more about the YouTube Shorts Creator Fund HERE
- Learn more about Be Social Group
CONNECT WITH ALI
Follow me on Instagram: @aligrant
Follow me on TikTok: @aligrnt
CONNECT WITH JESS
Follow me on Instagram: @jessyoowould
Follow me on TikTok: @jessyoowould
Serena Kerrigan, Queen of Confidence: Navigating Rejection & Finding Confidence Online
The Queen of Confidence, Serena F*cking Kerrigan, joins us today to hone in on how she navigates rejection and finds confidence online. Serena has always known that she is a creator, so she got her start creating content for Refinery29 and ultimately, left the job just before the pandemic to––in her own words––”start her empire”. She is the ultimate hype girl and this episode is the confidence boost you need that will remind you it’s not cringey to put yourself out there.
IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT:
- How to get past feeling embarrassed on social media
- Her best & worst brand partnerships
- Her tips for creating reels and TikToks
- The importance off platform as a creator & building a brand
RESOURCES
- Buy the Let’s Fucking Date card game: letsfuckingdate.com
- Learn more about Be Social Group
CONNECT WITH SERENA
Follow me on Instagram: @serenakerrigan
Follow me on TikTok: @serenakerrigan
CONNECT WITH ALI
Follow me on Instagram: @aligrant
Follow me on TikTok: @aligrnt
CONNECT WITH JESS
Follow me on Instagram: @jessyoowould
Follow me on TikTok: @jessyoowould
Remi Ishizuka + Nate Pontiou, HomeBodies: Creating a Company From Home
Influencer and entrepreneurs, Remi Ishizuka + Nate Pontiou join us today to share how they started their fitness company, HomeBodies, during the pandemic and how they have used this past year to reach a new audience, start a business, and grow their platforms.
Mario Moreno, H&M: The Mind Behind Influencer Marketing
Head of US Marketing at H&M, Mario Moreno, joins us today to share how he built his career working for top powerhouse brands such as H&M, Forever 21, L'Oreal, and Guess. Mario breaks down his best social media marketing strategies for brands and also shares how he created a successful brand and social media following of his own through utilizing these strategies for his personal use as well.
Keltie Knight, The LadyGang: Building An Entertainment Empire
Entertainment and entrepreneurial extraordinaire, Keltie Knight, joins us today to share her journey through the entertainment world. From serving as a professional dancer, television personality, host, and more, Keltie breaks down how she landed these roles and ultimately built her entertainment empire. Keltie also shares the journey behind creating The LadyGang and how she's used her entertainment expertise to also become a successful entreprenuer.
Lauren Scruggs Kennedy, Stranded: Building Confidence within the Beauty Industry
Influencer and entrepreneur, Lauren Scruggs Kennedy, joins us today to share her journey and pursuit of clean living within the beauty and wellness space. She touches on the importance of using her social platform for good and how she has used her life events to spread confidence within the beauty industry. From launching her own dry shampoo line to providing women cosmetic coverings for prostheses, Lauren highlights the importance of an inclusive beauty space.
Akash Mehta, Fable and Mane: Cultivating an Authentic Career
Akash Mehta, British entrepreneur, social media influencer, and digital marketing specialist for beauty and fashion brands joins us today to share how he has successfully reached multiple audiences through his career in digital marketing. From serving as the Global Digital Manager at Dior Beauty to creating his own brand Fable and Mane, it is no shock that Akash's accomplishments placed him on the Forbes ’30 under 30’ List in Media & Marketing. He breaks down how to grow a side hustle into a full-time business, working for a global beauty brand, and his best digital marketing tips.
Lauren Gores Ireland, Summer Fridays: Beauty Blogger to Brand Founder
Lauren Gores Ireland, co-founder of the popular beauty brand, Summer Fridays, joins us today to discuss all things skincare and social. From starting her blog to creating her dream brand, Lauren shares the process of becoming an influencer, launching a brand, and balancing motherhood.
Brittany Hennessy, Carbon August: Influencing Influencers
We are back for Season 3 and joined by Brittany Hennessy! Brittany was the first Senior Director, Influencer Strategy & Talent Partnerships at Hearst Magazines Digital Media and is also the best-selling author of "INFLUENCER: Building Your Personal Brand In The Age Of Social Media." She breaks down the truth behind the influencer industry and shares helpful tips and tricks for those who are looking to break out in the industry, grow their own personal brand, or just simply step up their social media game.
Lauren Elizabeth, XLE The Label: Diversifying Your Platform
Influencer, YouTuber, Podcaster, actress, and brand owner, Lauren Elizabeth, joins us today to talk about her decade long journey through her digital platforms. From creating her blog in high school to creating her own clothing line, Lauren Elizabeth has done it all. She touches on the importance of mental health and breaks down what it takes to be successful on multiple platforms.
Jackie Schimmel, The Bitch Bible: Podcast Popularity
Jackie Schimmel, host of The Bitch Bible, shares her unfiltered take on starting a podcast and building an online community. From quitting her job to pursue her podcast fulltime to getting blocked on Instagram, Jackie shares the road to her digital success and what really happens behind the scenes.
Vanessa Lee, THE THINGS WE DO: The Business of Botox & Beauty
Vanessa Lee, world-renowned Medical Aesthetic Provider and creator of THE THINGS WE DO, joins us today to discuss her journey within the cosmetic/medical field. She shares how she has built her own business AND her own skincare line. She also breaks down all things botox, skincare, and the power of influencers in helping grow a business.
Natalie Ellis, Boss Babe: Growing a Business
Natalie Ellis, co-founder of the global online community, Boss Babe, stops by to share how she has built a platform that inspires and supports women to turn their dreams into a reality through building successful businesses. She hits on how she built her business, the pressures of imposter syndrome, and the best social media practices for growing an Instagram.
Nicole Lapin, Author: Burnout to Balance
Nicole Lapin, New York Times bestselling author of Rich Bitch: A Simple 12-Step Plan for Getting Your Financial Life Together . . .Finally and Becoming Super Woman: A Simple 12 Step Plan to Go from Burnout to Balance joins us today to share how to become a super woman, not Superwoman. She breaks down how to avoid burnout, create balance in your life, and touches on her best financial tips as well.
Sivan Ayla Richards, Tan Lines + Lux Unfiltered: Remaining Real Online
Sivan Ayla Richards joins us today to share how she has built such a highly engaged following on Instagram through her unfiltered voice. She describes her journey as an influencer to brand owner, and walks us through the process of starting not only, one but two brands. If that wasn't enough, Sivan also shares how she balances motherhood and her online community.
Sona Gasparian, Persona Cosmetics: The Brains Behind a Beauty Brand
Sona Gasparian, founder of Persona Cosmetics, join us today to talk about all things beauty! From creating her own beauty line, Persona, to working with brands such as Armani, YSL, and Dior, she touches on the balance between doubling as an influencer and brand owner. From working as a makeup artist to creating her own product line, Sona's beauty expertise has no limits!
Cologne Trude and Cammy Miller, Show Me Your Mumu: Founding a Fashion Line
Cologne Trude and Cammy Miller, founders of the clothing line, Show Me Your Mumu, sit down with us to discuss how they built their business from the ground up. From originally selling their clothes on Facebook, to ultimately creating a huge social following for their brand, these girls have done it all and looked cute while doing so!
Jaclyn Johnson, Create & Cultivate: Creating a Millennial Workplace
Jaclyn Johnson joins us to kick off Season Three! She discusses the birth of Create & Cultivate and how she grew and scaled her company to what it is today. She also touches on what it is like not only managing, but working with millennials, her thoughts on creating an enjoyable work culture and work-life balance and what it is like to be the face of a company.
Krista Williams and Lindsey Simcik, Almost 30: Garnering Podcast Popularity
Krista Williams and Lindsey Simcik, the duo behind the massively popular podcast, Almost 30, join us to discuss how they have built a LOYAL community and growing brand. They walk us through the start of their podcast, tips on growing it into a successful business and... WE TALK MONEY as the girls dish on how serious podcasters make the dough.
Stephanie Montes, Well+Good and More: Freelance Beauty Editor, A Look Inside the Media Industry
Stephanie Montes is a freelance beauty and fashion editor. Writing for publications such as Elite Daily, Byrdie, Elle, Brides, and more. She joins us today to talk through going from full time to freelance, the ups and downs of the media world, and what she thinks of the industry.
Alex Georgy, Bloggers Who Brunch: Building a Brand
Founder of Bloggers Who Brunch, Alex Georgy, shares how she built her company straight out of college. She discusses the importance of networking within the influencer space and quick tips on how to stand out as a brand and as an influencer.
Kirbie Johnson, POPSUGAR: Corporate to Freelancer
Kirbie Johnson joins us on her first official day as a freelancer after leaving her job at POPSUGAR after seven years. This beauty guru and host breaks down her decision to transition from a corporate setting to freelance, and shares her journey as a host, producer, and reporter.
Katie Groover, REVOLVE: Secrets to Social Media Marketing
Katie Groover, content and social media beauty specialist at REVOLVE Beauty, stops by to educate us on all things social. From getting her start at Too Faced Cosmetics, to her current gig at REVOLVE, Katie has always lived and breathed social media marketing. She gives us the lowdown on the best tips and strategies for influencer marketing and shares the success and techniques behind REVOLVE'S social platforms.