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, a research affiliate at the Center on Digital Culture and Society, dives into her book about the rise of the influencer industry. She highlights how the Great Recession pushed many into digital personal branding. Hund discusses the journey from early bloggers to today's complex influencer landscape. Authenticity, once a valued trait, has turned commercial. She also addresses ongoing challenges like vulnerability and industry precarity, illuminating the unexpected costs of this digital fame.

Emily Hund, a research affiliate at the University of Pennsylvania, explores the rise of social media influencers in her new book. She discusses how the 2008 recession pushed many into digital content creation, reshaping personal branding. Hund highlights the paradox of authenticity in the influencer industry, revealing that those perceived as 'real' are often skilled at navigating its complexities. The conversation also touches on the social impact of influencers, mental health challenges, and the rise of activism in response to global calls for change.

Emily Hund, a research affiliate at the University of Pennsylvania, dives deep into the complexities of influencer culture. She highlights the emergence of influencers from the Great Recession and how they transitioned from bloggers to brand ambassadors. Hund sheds light on the constructed nature of authenticity within the industry and discusses the mental costs and power imbalances influencers endure. The conversation also touches on the shift towards social consciousness in content and the unexpected fallout from early scandals. A thought-provoking exploration of digital identities!

In this engaging discussion, Emily Hund, a research affiliate at the Annenberg School, dives into her book, exploring the birth of the influencer industry amid the Great Recession. She examines how early digital creators transformed their struggles into a lucrative market, emphasizing the evolution of authenticity as a commercial asset. Hund reveals the impact of social media on personal branding and discusses the industry's societal implications, including mental health challenges and the spread of misinformation. Her insights offer a fascinating look at the interplay between digital culture and our everyday lives.

Emily Hund, a research affiliate at the Center on Digital Culture and Society, explores the evolution of the influencer industry from its roots in recession-era blogging to today's monetized platforms. She discusses how early creators transformed personal branding into a profession and highlights the paradox of authenticity being commodified. Hund also analyzes the backlash and regulatory challenges influencers face, while warning about the broader societal implications of misinformation fueled by influencer culture. It's a deep dive into an industry that's reshaped how we connect.

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.