Carla’s experience is a stark reminder that the creator economy isn’t just “broken”—it’s working exactly as intended, just not for the people actually creating. The platforms, algorithms, and revenue models are optimized for the platforms themselves, not for the users. The reality is that creators are expected to function as full-scale media companies—handling content production, marketing, monetization, and business strategy—while also keeping up with ever-shifting platform incentives that increasingly feel like a losing game.
This shift mirrors what’s happening across industries: from freelance writers to gig workers to indie brand owners, the digital economy has pushed people into a state of permanent hustle, where they’re forced to constantly adapt to survive, often with diminishing returns. The dream of “just post and get discovered” has given way to a landscape where even established creators like Carla, with a proven audience and a strong brand, can struggle to make it work.
And yet, audiences are conditioned to expect content to flow endlessly, assuming that if someone stops posting, they’ve simply “fallen off” rather than made a strategic (or necessary) decision for their own well-being. This disconnect—between what it takes to create and what audiences assume—reinforces the platforms’ power.
my next book, book three, is now due—and I can't stress this enough—in 28 days!
thank you, kyle for this conversation and for your perspective, always
ofc queen!! and YOU GOT THIS!!!! cannot wait to read it!!!!!!
Carla’s experience is a stark reminder that the creator economy isn’t just “broken”—it’s working exactly as intended, just not for the people actually creating. The platforms, algorithms, and revenue models are optimized for the platforms themselves, not for the users. The reality is that creators are expected to function as full-scale media companies—handling content production, marketing, monetization, and business strategy—while also keeping up with ever-shifting platform incentives that increasingly feel like a losing game.
This shift mirrors what’s happening across industries: from freelance writers to gig workers to indie brand owners, the digital economy has pushed people into a state of permanent hustle, where they’re forced to constantly adapt to survive, often with diminishing returns. The dream of “just post and get discovered” has given way to a landscape where even established creators like Carla, with a proven audience and a strong brand, can struggle to make it work.
And yet, audiences are conditioned to expect content to flow endlessly, assuming that if someone stops posting, they’ve simply “fallen off” rather than made a strategic (or necessary) decision for their own well-being. This disconnect—between what it takes to create and what audiences assume—reinforces the platforms’ power.
this is so spot on, thank you for articulating it in a way that just absolutely nails the struggle. capitalism amirite!!!????
ding ding ding: this is exactly it!! thank you!!!!