Influencer Confidential

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Welcome to Influencer Confidential, a podcast brought to you by Sidewalker Daily. In this podcast, we are dedicated to creating transparency in the Influencer Industry and showing what it takes to succeed in this new world. Sidewalker Daily is a consulting agency that works on both sides of the influencer industry. On one hand, Sidewalker Daily consults for brands and public relations firms on their influencer marketing initiatives and social media strategy and on the other, the company works with influencers and creators to help them build sustainable businesses online. Sidewalker Daily's unique position in the industry bridges the gap between brands and creators, to ensure every partnership is a win-win. Sidewalker has worked on campaigns for Jetsetter (A Tripadvisor Company), Four Seasons and the Costa Rica Tourism Board, to name a few. In this podcast, expect to learn about all things working with brands, being an influencer, influencer marketing, media kits, pitching to brands and much more! Meet Your Host, Nina Zadeh - Co-founder, Nina received her MBA in marketing from Fordham University and has a B.A. in Communications and Economics from Boston College.

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    • Jun 5, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 12m AVG DURATION
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    Latest episodes from Influencer Confidential

    How AI Could RUIN the Creator Economy and What You Need to Know #253

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2025 12:14


    Creators vs. AI? AI is changing the creator landscape fast, and not always in ways that benefit us.In this episode, I'm sharing a real situation that sparked a BIG conversation in my creator community. We're talking about the ripple effects of AI in the influencer space: what it means for your brand, your income, and your future.And this is something every content creator needs to be thinking about. If you're a creator, brand, or just curious about where this is all headed — you need to see this.We're going to talk about what's really going on, and how we can protect our work and our future.

    How She Landed a $200,000 Brand Deal + 1.5M Followers FAST [Creator Currency Ep. 13]

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2025 44:56


    In this engaging conversation, Sandi shares her incredible journey of growth in the content creation space, detailing her family's epic travels and the strategies that led to their success on social media. From leveraging viral content to understanding the importance of speed and consistency, Sandi emphasizes the need for creators to believe in their worth and invest in their growth. The discussion also touches on the significance of brand deals and the mindset required to thrive in the ever-evolving landscape of digital content. In this conversation, Sandi shares her journey from running a film production company to embracing a full-time RV lifestyle and creating engaging content on social media. She discusses the impact of their lifestyle changes on their family and the importance of authenticity in content creation. Sandi emphasizes the significance of persistence in pitching to brands, the division of responsibilities within their family business, and the challenges of managing community engagement. The conversation also touches on effective pitching strategies, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the importance of planning to avoid burnout while maintaining high-quality content.You Can Follow Sandi & Jimi Here:Website: https://www.trynsomethingnew.com/Instagram: @trynsomethingnew - https://www.instagram.com/trynsomethingnew/TikTok: @trynsomethingnew - https://www.tiktok.com/@trynsomethingnewYouTube:  @tryNsomethingnew  - https://www.youtube.com/trynsomethingnewAbout Sidewalker Daily:Sidewalker Daily is your go-to resource for Creators and Influencers who want to land paid brand deals, make money doing what they love, and build a successful business with the right tools and strategies.

    Can You Make Money on Instagram Threads? Here's How Creators Are Doing It! #252

    Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2025 9:13


    @CreateCultivate CEO Reveals the Power of Personal Branding, Community, and Women Empowerment

    Play Episode Listen Later May 27, 2025 38:45


    In this engaging conversation, Marina Middleton shares her journey from a cultural shock in Boston to becoming the CEO of Create and Cultivate. She discusses the butterfly effect of her career, the importance of in-person networking, and how her company empowers women at all stages of their careers. Marina provides valuable networking tips and emphasizes the significance of maintaining a strong digital presence. In this conversation, Nina and Marina discuss the significance of personal branding, the creation of the world's largest festival for women in business, and the balance between motherhood and entrepreneurship. Marina shares insights on evolving personal brands, the vision behind the festival, and the importance of modeling resilience for the next generation.You Can Follow Marina Here: Personal Website: https://www.marinamiddleton.com/ Create Cultivate Website: https://www.createcultivate.com/ Create Cultivate Festival: https://www.createcultivate.com/festival Instagram: @CreateCultivate https://www.instagram.com/createcultivate/ @MarinaaMiddleton https://www.instagram.com/marinaamiddleton/ TikTok: @CreateCultivate.com https://www.tiktok.com/@createcultivate.com @MarinaaMiddleton https://www.tiktok.com/@marinaamiddletonAbout Sidewalker Daily:Sidewalker Daily is your go-to resource for Creators and Influencers who want to land paid brand deals, make money doing what they love, and build a successful business with the right tools and strategies.

    Influencer Marketing in 2025: What Creators & Brands Need to Know #251

    Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2025 13:02


    $450,000 For An Instagram Story - How @Alixearle Became a Successful Influencer #250

    Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2025 8:40


    $200,000+ Brand Deals, YouTube Secrets, Social Media Tips with @thelatashajames

    Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2025 53:42


    In this conversation, Latasha James and Nina discuss the evolution of content creation, focusing on the transition from being seen as an influencer to a business owner. They explore the importance of brand partnerships, pricing strategies, and the significance of long-form content on platforms like YouTube. Latasha shares her experiences with successful brand collaborations, the importance of maintaining relationships with brands, and the red flags to watch out for when entering partnerships. The discussion emphasizes the need for creators to align their brand partnerships with their values and audience expectations while also highlighting the joy of content creation. In this conversation, Latasha James shares her journey as a content creator, discussing her passion for filmmaking and the joy of creating content. She emphasizes the importance of understanding one's identity as a creator, the significance of niching down for growth, and the strategies for maintaining consistency in content creation. Latasha also highlights the benefits of vlogging as a creative outlet and explores monetization opportunities through social media management. She discusses the evolution of her community and the solopreneur mindset, encouraging creators to align their work with their values and to consider outsourcing tasks that do not bring them joy.You Can Follow Latasha Here: Website: https://www.latashajames.com/Instagram: @thelatashajames https://www.instagram.com/thelatashajames/TikTok: @thelatashajames https://www.tiktok.com/@thelatashajamesYouTube: @thelatashajames https://www.youtube.com/@thelatashajamesSpotify Podcast: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/thelatashajames/Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-freelance-friday-podcast/id1339512399Social Media Management Accelerator: https://courses.latashajames.com/courses/social-media-management-accelerator?ref=6ee987Use code SIDEWALKER for 30% OFF (or the 1st month if you choose the payment plan).Free Vlogging Course: https://courses.latashajames.com/courses/the-art-of-the-vlogOther links mentioned by Latasha:Values Assessment: https://personalvalu.es/Nikon Z 30: https://amzn.to/3Z7CfdAAbout Sidewalker Daily:Sidewalker Daily is your go-to resource for Creators and Influencers who want to land paid brand deals, make money doing what they love, and build a successful business with the right tools and strategies.

    No Followers? No Problem! 5 Ways to Earn on Instagram #249

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2025 10:22


    Think you need a huge following to start making money on Instagram? Well, I might change your mind

    $20,000 Brand Deals & Instagram Growth Secrets from Olga Valentin @mini.jetsetter [Creator Currency Ep. 10]

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2025 50:32


    In this episode of Influencer Confidential, Nina interviews Olga Valentin, a successful content creator and entrepreneur behind Mini Jet Setter. Olga shares her journey of growing her Instagram following to over 100,000 in just two years, emphasizing the importance of focusing on a niche, providing value, and the quality of content over quantity. They discuss strategies for effective pitching, the significance of personalization in brand partnerships, and how to manage time effectively while balancing family life. Olga also opens up about overcoming frustration, building confidence, and dealing with imposter syndrome in the creator economy. In this conversation, Olga shares her journey as a creator and entrepreneur, discussing the importance of supportive partnerships, and the balance between motherhood and her career. She emphasizes the significance of morning routines for productivity and the careful navigation of family safety in the online space. Olga also delves into her experience of building a product line alongside her influencer work, highlighting the organic growth of her travel kits and her vision for the future of her brand.You can Follow Olga Here:Website: www.minijetsetter.com Instagram: @mini.jetsetter https://www.instagram.com/mini.jetsetter/ TikTok: @mini.jetsetter https://www.tiktok.com/@mini.jetsetterAbout Sidewalker Daily:Sidewalker Daily is your go-to resource for creators who want to land brand deals, make money doing what they love, and level up their pitch game with the right tools and strategies.

    7 Signs You're Ready for PAID Brand Deals + FREE WORKSHEET! #248

    Play Episode Listen Later May 1, 2025 13:15


    7 Signs You're Ready for PAID Brand Deals + FREE WORKSHEET!After working with thousands of creators, I've noticed the clear signs that separate those landing consistent, paid brand partnerships from those who are still struggling. In this episode, I'm breaking down the real indicators that tell you you're ready to get paid — and how to make sure brands see you as a valuable partner!✨ We'll cover:The biggest sign you're ready for paid partnershipsHow to test your influence (beyond likes & comments!)What your content consistency says about youWhy brands reaching out is your green light to chargeThe importance of knowing your niche and your personHow affiliate success = proof you're ready to pitchWhy your mindset, confidence, and knowing your worth really matter

    Travel Creator of 10+ Years @NicoleIsaacs Shares All - [Creator Currency Ep. 9]

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2025 52:23


    In this engaging conversation, Nina interviews Nicole Isaacs, a seasoned content creator and entrepreneur, who shares her journey in the influencer space. They discuss the balance between personal life and career, the perks of being a content creator, the evolution of content creation, and the importance of audience engagement. Nicole emphasizes the need for intentional living and the significance of charging for work, especially in the travel industry, where monetization can be challenging. The conversation wraps up with reflections on successful campaigns and the changing landscape of brand partnerships. In this conversation, Nicole shares her journey as a creator, discussing her experiences with brand collaborations, the challenges of management, and the importance of investing in personal growth. She emphasizes the significance of authenticity in content creation and offers valuable advice for aspiring creators. The discussion also touches on her transition to entrepreneurship with her brand, Kadima, and the lessons learned along the way.You Can Follow Nicole Here:Website: https://www.nicoleisaacs.com/Instagram: @nicoleisaacs https://www.instagram.com/nicoleisaacs/TikTok: @nicoleisaacsofficial https://www.tiktok.com/@nicoleisaacsofficialKadimah's Instagram: @kadimah https://www.instagram.com/kadimah/Kadimah's website: https://kadimah.co/About Sidewalker Daily:Sidewalker Daily helps influencers and creators build profitable businesses through brand partnerships, monetization strategies, and expert guidance. With over 150,000 creators in our community and years of experience managing hundreds of thousands of dollars in brand campaigns, we bring a unique perspective from both sides of the industry, helping creators understand what brands really want.

    6 Ways to Get Brands to Reach Out First For Brand Partnerships #247

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2025 13:05


    How @guesswheretrips Chooses Their Influencer Collabs - [Creator Currency Ep. 8]

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2025 39:43


    In this episode of Influencer Confidential, Nina interviews Jessica Off, founder of Guess Where Trips, a company that creates unique, self-guided mystery road trips. Jessica shares her journey of starting the business, the importance of local influencers, and how social media has played a crucial role in scaling her brand. The conversation delves into strategies for working with creators, the metrics of successful campaigns, and the balance of trusting creators while maintaining brand integrity. Jessica also discusses lessons learned from campaigns that didn't go as planned and the evolving landscape of influencer marketing. In this conversation, Nina and Jessica Off discuss the intricacies of influencer marketing, focusing on negotiation strategies, regional pricing variations, the impact of seasonality on marketing efforts, and effective pitching strategies for creators. They also highlight upcoming opportunities for creators to collaborate with brands, emphasizing the importance of tailored pitches and understanding market dynamics.You Can Follow Jess Here:www.guesswheretrips.comInstagram: @guesswheretripsYouTube: @guesswheretrips TikTok: @guesswheretripsThis episode can also been seen on YouTube: https://youtu.be/t_ve3w_lpNA

    The Perfect UGC Portfolio - What to Include to Work With Brands | FREE CHECKLIST #246

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2025 13:43


    Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube? Where Creators Make Money in 2025! #245

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2025 11:14


    7 Signs Brands Are NOTICING YOU Even If They Haven't Reached Out Yet! #244

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2025 7:02


    Top Mistakes Travel Influencers Make When Pitching Tourism Boards #243

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 19, 2025 9:17


    If you dream of working with tourism boards, hotels, and travel brands, but keep getting ignored… it's time for a reality check.

    Why Faceless Influencers Are DOMINATING Social Media... And How You Can Too! #242

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2025 8:26


    Thinking about posting on social media but not ready to show your face? You're not alone — and I got you! Faceless marketing is blowing up, and brands are paying BIG for content that doesn't require you to be on camera. In this episode, we're diving into how faceless creators are taking over, how you can land brand deals, monetize your content, and build a faceless creator empire — all without ever showing your face. Let's get into it!

    Don't Do This! 8 Vlogging Mistakes New Creators Do #241

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 27, 2025 12:40


    Thinking About Vlogging? DON'T Make These Mistakes! Okay, so I've been vlogging… and let's just say, I've learned a thing or two (or ten

    Getting Paid By Brands: Secrets Influencers Don't Share! #240

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2025 11:32


    If you've ever wondered how influencers are landing massive brand deals, getting luxury travel experiences, or making six figures with their content — YOU'RE IN THE RIGHT PLACE ✨ In this episode, I'm spilling the secrets straight from my community of 150,000+ creators, sharing the real strategies influencers use to get PAID

    Travel Influencer Partnerships: The "Secret" Formula That Gets You Paid

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 13, 2025 10:05


    7 Red Flags For Influencer and UGC Brand Deals

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 29, 2025 10:43


    8 Ways to Get Brands Attention on Social Media #236

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 22, 2025 11:29


    In this episode, I'm sharing practical and powerful strategies to help you attract brands and get on their radar — without always having to pitch first! We'll dive into how creating content around your favorite brands (even before they reach out) can work in your favor, how tagging brands can lead to opportunities, and why in-person networking might just be your secret weapon. Let's make 2025 the year brands can't help but notice you! ✨

    AI Tools Every Creator Needs in 2025 #235

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 15, 2025 7:03


    In this episode, I'm diving into how creators can use AI tools to stay creative, save time, and streamline their workflow — all without losing that authentic, human touch your audience loves! These must-have tools, recommended by our amazing Sidewalker Daily community and my personal experience, will change the game for content creators and influencers alike. From video editing and social media management to generating fresh, standout ideas, these tools are designed to help you work smarter, not harder. Plus, they'll set you up to crush your 2025 goals — landing more paid brand deals and scaling your creator business. Let's make 2025 your most profitable, efficient, and creative year yet! ✨

    Creator Economy SECRETS & Top 2025 Trends From Influencer Marketing Expert #234

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 8, 2025 15:22


    Planning Your 2025 Brand Collabs: How to Start Strong with New Year Partnerships #233

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 2025 11:06


    Ready to plan your best year of paid brand partnerships yet? In this episode, I'm sharing how to reflect on your 2024 collabs, update your media kit, build a smart “hit list,” and plan your Q1 content, so you can pitch with confidence and land those dream collabs! Q1 is a perfect time to pitch as brands have fresh budgets and are excited to team up. Let's make 2025 your most profitable (and fun!) year yet! 

    Wrap Up 2024: Reflect, Refocus, and Recharge for 2025 | Free Worksheet! #232

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 18, 2024 8:59


    How to Stay Inspired as a Creator: Overcoming Burnout and Creative Blocks! #230

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 4, 2024 15:14


    Being a creator isn't always easy, especially when inspiration feels like it's nowhere to be found. In this episode, I'm diving into the real struggles creators face – from burnout to creative blocks – and sharing actionable tips to help you rediscover your spark and stay inspired.

    "Is It an Influencer's Job to Drive Sales?" Two Sides of the Coin #227

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 5, 2024 13:40


    We're tackling a topic that's got everyone talking — are influencers actually responsible for driving sales?

    Stop! 7 Things Influencers NEED to Consider Before Getting Management #226

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 1, 2024 12:58


    If you're a creator just starting to get traction or stepping up your paid influencer game, getting a manager might seem like the next big move!

    How Influencers Turn 'No' Into Brand Deals & Opportunities #223

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 15, 2024 11:21


    influencer marketing examples, brand deals for influencers, how to get brand deals as a small influencer, brand deals for small influencers, biggest influencer brand deals, how to reject a collaboration offer politely, influencer brand deal rates, how influencers promote brands, how influencers help brands, how influencers increase brand awareness, how influencers work with brands, how to get brand deals, how to land paid brand deals, brand collab, influencer marketing, saying no to brand deals, influencer tips, the creator economy, how to be an influencer, micro influencer, content creator, influencer marketing tips, influencer marketing strategy, how to get paid brand deals on Instagram, how to pitch to brands, how to reach out to a brand Rejection is never fun, especially in the creator space, but it's a normal part of the process! In today's episode, we're diving deep into how influencers and creators can turn those dreaded "no's" from brands into future opportunities. I'll be sharing tips and strategies to help you understand why rejection isn't personal and how you can refine your pitching to land those paid brand deals.

    How to Plan Your First Vlog: Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners #222

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 11, 2024 16:12


    Are you ready to film your first vlog but not sure where to start? In this episode, I'll walk you through a step-by-step guide to help you PLAN and SHOOT your very first vlog. From defining your "why" to choosing the right format, gear, and editing tips, I've got you covered! Vlogging can feel overwhelming, especially if you're just getting started, but don't worry — we'll break it down into simple steps that'll boost your confidence and get you filming in no time. And remember, vlogging is all about having fun and sharing your story! Let's do this!

    Overcoming Anxiety Around Vlogging & How To Get Started #221

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 8, 2024 10:40


    Understanding Brand Expectations | What Small Creators Need to Know #220

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 2, 2024 13:42


    If you're a small creator diving into your first brand deals, you're probably wondering, “What are brands actually looking for?”

    Do Brands Want To Work with Small Creators? THE TRUTH… #219

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2024 12:00


    If you're a small creator wondering if brands actually want to work with you, the answer is YES! In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain from my experience on the brand side, where I've helped manage influencer campaigns and budgets for creators of ALL sizes. Here's what we'll cover: - Why small creators are valuable for brand campaigns - The advantages of being cost-effective and niche - How smaller creators often have stronger engagement rates - Why local and regional campaigns benefit from working with smaller creators - The importance of being flexible and creative as a small creator The influencer marketing world has room for everyone, no matter the size of your audience. So, don't get discouraged — brands need YOU!! Join our free live training to learn the EXACT STEPS you need to take to start pitching and landing paid brand deals!

    Shady Influencers are in Big Trouble: FTC Bans Fake Followers — Let's discuss #218

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 17, 2024 9:34


    If you've been tempted to buy followers to boost your numbers, let me STOP you right there. In this episode, we're talking about the FTC's new rules banning fake followers and why this is a huge deal for influencers and brands. Authenticity is key. Growing your account organically fosters creativity, builds trust, and pushes the true essence of community in the influencer space. Don't let shady practices like fake followers ruin your brand deals and credibility!

    Media Kit Mistakes That Are HURTING Your Brand Deals #217

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2024 9:27


    As someone who's been on the brand side, managing countless influencer campaigns, I've seen it all! Your media kit is essentially your modern-day resume for brand partnerships, and it can make or break your chances of getting noticed. In this video, I'm sharing the top media kit mistakes that are costing you brand deals ❌

    Stop Believing These Lies About Brand Partnerships #216

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2024 11:22


    I Started Instagram from Scratch — This is How I'm Doing It! #215

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 22, 2024 12:12


    5 Game Changing Habits for YouTube Consistency #214

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2024 9:02


    Influencer Marketplaces EXPOSED | The Ultimate Guide for Creators #213

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 7, 2024 6:56


    How Influencers make $10k per month | 10 Income Ideas

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2024 15:57


    We're going to spill the secret to earning $10k per month as a Creator! (And it doesn't even require that much work!

    How To Get Your FIRST Brand Sponsorship as a NEW Influencer! #211

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2024 15:02


    Ever wondered how to snag your first brand sponsorship as a new influencer without tons of followers?

    Insider Tips: 12 Things Tourism Boards Want from Creators ✈️ ✈️ #210

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 2, 2024 15:00


    The PERFECT 15 Minute a Day Engagement Routine for Instagram!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 27, 2024 12:12


    Do you ever find yourself getting overwhelmed in trying to engage on Instagram or getting lost on how to actually go about it? We hear you. And, we've got you covered! As Content Creators, we know how critical it is to maintain a good engagement strategy on Instagram. In this episode, we break down the essentials of a killer engagement strategy on Instagram – all in just 15 minutes a day!

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