Mixed Signals from Semafor Media TikTok Stars on the Politicians Begging Them for Exposure
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Dec 30, 2025 
Join Julian Shapiro-Barnum, creator of Recess Therapy, who shifts from theater to interviewing kids; Ananiya Williams of Gaydar, an LGBTQ quiz-show host advocating for safety and representation; and Jack Coyne of Trackstar, who books high-profile musical guests. They dive into how TikTok creators are reshaping media, the ethics of monetization, the awkward encounters with politicians like Kamala Harris, and the challenges of maintaining audience trust amidst growing fame and industry attention.
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Breakthrough From Persistence
- Caleb Simpson spent years making content before his apartment-tour bit went viral after one person said yes.
- He now makes about $100,000 a month from those videos and calls his early work “throwing shit against the wall.”
From Theater To Viral Kids’ Show
- Julian Shapiro-Barnum started Recess Therapy during COVID after theater work paused and obsessively practiced interviewing strangers.
- His show produced viral hits like Corn Kid and became his full-time life.
Relatability Beats Production Value
- Creators believe low-cost, relatable production increases audience connection compared with polished studio shows.
- The format feels accessible so viewers imagine themselves on or making the content.