Taylor Lorenz, a technology columnist for The Washington Post and author of "Extremely Online," discusses the evolution of fame and influence in the digital realm. She reveals the origins of influencer culture and reflects on the rise and fall of platforms like Vine. Lorenz emphasizes the pivotal decisions made by YouTube that shaped content creation, while highlighting the often-overlooked contributions of women in the field. The conversation dives into creator economics, collaboration dynamics, and the emotional toll of navigating online fame.
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Early Career Criticism
Taylor Lorenz faced criticism early in her career from established journalists who questioned her credibility due to her online background.
Despite being published in The Atlantic, she was dismissed by some as not being a "real journalist."
insights INSIGHT
Women's Role in Social Media
Women, particularly young women and mothers, were significant early adopters of social media and blogging.
Their contributions to the creator economy are often overlooked in favor of corporate narratives.
insights INSIGHT
Mommy Bloggers as Pioneers
Mommy bloggers were pioneers in the early creator economy, establishing monetization strategies and building large audiences through blogging.
Their influence paved the way for later content creators and online businesses.
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The Untold Story of Fame, Influence, and Power on the Internet
Taylor Lorenz
In 'Extremely Online,' Taylor Lorenz provides a comprehensive and deeply reported chronicle of the internet's impact on modern society. The book explores how social platforms' power users have radically altered our expectations of content, connection, purchasing, and power. Lorenz documents the rise of influencers, from 'mommy bloggers' who first monetized their personal brands to teens who reinvented fame through selfie videos and young creators on TikTok who are leveraging new opportunities. The book highlights the disruptive changes in modern capitalism, creating new sectors of the economy and empowering previously marginalized groups, while also discussing the darker aspects of this digital revolution, such as exploitation and disinformation.
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Inside YouTube’s Chaotic Rise to World Domination
Mark Bergen
Taylor Lorenz is a technology columnist for The Washington Post's business section covering online culture and the content creator industry. She was previously a technology reporter for The New York Times business section, The Atlantic, and The Daily Beast.
Her writing has appeared in New York magazine, Rolling Stone, Outside magazine, and more. She frequently appears on NBC, CNN, MSNBC, CBS, and the BBC. She even appears in documentaries on Netflix, Hulu, and HBO.
Creator Science 
