Emily Hund

Paris Marx is joined by Emily Hund to discuss the creation of the influencer industry, how it’s been formalized by companies who profit from it, and what can be done to make it fairer for the people who work in it. Emily Hund is the author of The Influencer Industry: The Quest for Authenticity on Social Media. She’s also a research affiliate at the Center on Digital Culture and Society at the University of Pennsylvania’s Annenberg School for Communication. Follow Emily on Twitter at @emilyadh.Tech Won’t Save Us offers a critical perspective on tech, its worldview, and wider society with the goal of inspiring people to demand better tech and a better world. Follow the podcast (@techwontsaveus) and host Paris Marx (@parismarx) on Twitter, and support the show on Patreon.The podcast is produced by Eric Wickham and part of the Harbinger Media Network.Also mentioned in this episode:An excerpt of Emily’s book was published in Wired.After Elon Musk took over Twitter, a menswear account was suddenly in everyone’s feeds.Instagram is offering a paid subscription service that includes customer service.Countries have begun regulating the influencer industry. For example, Norway requires retouched photos to be labeled, while France has an even stricter law that regulates the types of products that can be promoted along with other requirements.Support the show

In this engaging discussion, Emily Hund, a researcher from the University of Pennsylvania and author of "The Influencer Industry," dives into the fascinating world of online influencers. She explores how the Great Recession spurred creativity and shaped digital entrepreneurship. Hund addresses misconceptions about influencers, emphasizing their authenticity struggles and the importance of diversity. Plus, she offers valuable insights for brands and startups looking to leverage influencer marketing effectively, all while navigating the evolving social media landscape.

Emily Hund, author of 'The Influencer Industry: The Quest for Authenticity on Social Media,' joins the hosts to discuss the rise of social media influencers and their impact on the media landscape and capitalism. They explore hidden incentives driving influencer messaging and the control and impact of platforms on the industry. The podcast also delves into the selling of worldviews, the clash between personal branding and research in the fashion industry, and the importance of professionalism and standards in journalism.

Emily Hund, a researcher at the University of Pennsylvania and author of *The Influencer Industry*, dives into the evolution of influencer marketing. She reveals how economic challenges birthed this new career path and offers insights on finding the right influencers for brands. Hund emphasizes the value of long-term relationships over one-off campaigns. Discover effective strategies for small businesses, explore the rise of organic influencers, and learn how transparency in deals can transform brand-influencer dynamics.

Emily Hund, author of 'The Influencer Industry,' dives into the booming influencer economy, highlighting the staggering statistic of 13 million full-time influencers in the U.S. She discusses the industry’s rapid growth, worth a projected $250 billion by 2027, and the pressing need for regulation and accountability. Hund explores the transition from traditional fame to digital influence, examining the unique challenges and ethical dilemmas influencers face today. As the landscape evolves, she emphasizes the industry's potential impact and the quest for authenticity.