05/27/2026
A few weeks ago I spoke on a creator economy panel alongside some incredible industry insiders Priscilla Hardie and Melissa Konstantas. Thank you again to Julia O’Mara, Co-Founder of one of my fave apps/brands!
As part of Pickle’s panel series, we talked all about the creator economy from the legal, creator and brand/agency side perspective. From misconceptions to risks and how to better protect yourself, we went there and the reception from the creators in the room was incredible.
I talked about how each side of an influencer deal can understand the other better and what creators need to look out for in their agreements, mutual alignment and relationship building.
Here are some of my key takeways:
+ Brands need to understand that the leverage is shifting. Creators are not just content vendors anymore. They’re not just the cheaper alternative to multi-million dollar productions. They are business owners with IP, audience relationships, and their own brands to protect... and the contracts being put in front of them often don’t reflect that. So they will push back and they have every right to.
If you’re a brand or agency working with creators in 2026, the conversation has shifted. Creators are asking better questions, hiring lawyers, and walking away from deals that don’t protect them.
That’s not a threat. That’s the market maturing.
+ Creators need to view themselves as a business if they want longevity in this industry. There is a lot more money available now BUT there’s also a lot more creators out there. Everyone is vying for the same thing. So how do you set yourself apart?
In how you position yourself, the value you add (not just followers or conversions) and what your goals are.
The proper team members around you support this. Agents and managers, sure, but lawyers, accountants, PR, assistants, strategic partners as you evolve from content creator to media empire - podcast host, author, brand founder etc.
The creators thinking bigger and asking for more, those are the creators who win. Don’t just accept every deal that comes in, exposure is expensive in the long run.
(Continued in the comments)