MrBeast Addresses Controversies for the First Time

Hey Creators,

Australia felt like making a few international headlines this week.

First up, ABC Chairman Kim Williams had some strong words for Joe Rogan, saying, “People like Mr. Rogan prey on people’s vulnerabilities: they prey on fear, they prey on anxiety, they prey on all of the elements that contribute to uncertainty in society.”

As someone who listens to Rogan regularly, I can understand how someone who doesn’t would feel that way.

Next, over in the radio scene, staffing cuts are hitting hard across the industry. It’s no surprise with tighter budgets and shifting platforms, but I think we’re just getting started on what could be a pretty major shake-up.

And here’s the big one: Australia’s Senate passed a ban on social media for kids under 16, making it the world’s first law of its kind. Naturally, social media companies are not happy, and the backlash is already rolling in. But the government is pushing forward, framing it as a win for mental health.

What are your thoughts on the ban?

Here’s what you can expect in today’s newsletter:

  • Keep up to date with what’s happening in Quick Fire!

  • Social media Updates for this week

  • Check out my READ, LISTEN + WATCH recommendations for this week

    🫒by Jess Smalley

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“The best creators build empires by connecting with their audience on a deep, human level.”

– Jon Youshaei, founder of Created.

CREATOR NEWS

🧨QUICK FIRE

SOCIAL MEDIA UPDATES

Instagram

  • now has a Collage mode for Stories.

  • now lets you create a Reel from photos sent in a DM.

YouTube 

  • has added a new long list of creator tools and a new content disclosure system.

TikTok

  • The platform’s Studio is now available on desktop, with a new ‘Unlimited Sounds’ feature.

THE DIG

READ: Alexandra Cooper, star of Call Her Daddy, just inked a $125 million deal with SiriusXM, and it’s a smart move. She’s bringing her Unwell Network, which includes shows like Hot Mess and Pretty Lonesome, to a younger audience with her massive social media influence. Forbes interviews Cooper on how she plans to grow her multimedia empire.

LISTEN: The Creator Science podcast is quickly becoming my most downloaded show of this year. Jay Clouse invites a LinkedIn strategist who discusses how to approach the platform best. Stop sleeping on it!

WATCHFormer Vox journalist Christophe Haubursin launched the YouTube channel Tunnel Vision, offering transparent, step-by-step explainer content on topics like Bitcoin and fast fashion. The channel is in partnership with the media company NewPress, which provides editorial support while Haubursin leads its direction.

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Have a great week 🙂 

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