Big tech, big questions. fifth finds

Following Meta’s decision to remove content moderation at the request of the new Trump administration, other tech and social platforms are also coming into sharper focus.Alphabet – parent of YouTube and Google – is accused of suppressing conservative ‘free speech’ by Republican hardliners. Having been issued a subpoenae, Google spokesperson Jose Castañeda told The Verge “We’ll continue to show the committee how we enforce our policies independently, rooted in our commitment to free expression.”Over on Reddit, updates to the AutoMod tool are stirring debate, with some questioning its impact on free speech. Reddit is also testing new post formats and recommendation systems, changing how content is surfaced. (Read more)

From counterculture to corporate strategy.

Brands are embracing rebellion, but is it still rebellious if it’s part of the strategy? What once started as anti-establishment messaging from counterculture movements is now a carefully crafted marketing play. From bold campaigns to brands positioning themselves as disruptors, being ‘anti’ is officially in.

But as more companies lean into this so-called rebellious branding, it raises questions. Can a brand that’s part of the mainstream really be disruptive? Or is it just another way to capture attention in an oversaturated feed?

With users increasingly sceptical of corporate authenticity, brands need to walk the line between edgy and overplayed. For those looking to stand out, it’s not just about making noise, it’s about proving there’s substance behind the strategy. (Read more)

Grubstack.

Substack’s inaugural food festival, Grubstack, kicks off this Thursday 13th March, and runs through to Saturday 15th March. The event features live cook-alongs, bake-offs, and insightful conversations with top food writers, chefs, and culinary Creators. 
Highlights include cooking sessions with Simon Auscher, Rachel Khoo, and José Andrés, plus discussions on everything from hosting to culinary trends. Brands should take note of Substack’s move into the food space, as it shows a strong interest in culinary content among its community. (Read more)

Down the Caff.

In this episode of ‘Down The Caff’, Maverick Sabre sits down to chat about his experiences navigating the music scenes in both Ireland and the UK. He shares stories from his career, reflecting on the highs and lows, and offers insights into mentoring rising stars such as Jorja Smith. It’s a candid conversation that delves into cultural contrasts, the whirlwind of the music industry, and the importance of supporting new talent. (Read more)

Sidemen charity match breaks records.

The Sidemen Charity Match raised an incredible £4.7m for charity this year, breaking records once again. The event, which brought together Creators, footballers, and celebrities, was a major success both on and off the field, with viral moments and standout performances. 

This highlights the growing power of the Creator economy to bring people together for impactful causes, proving that Creator-led events are shaping culture and making a difference. (Read more)

The UK’s Newest Food Creator Network. 

Scribehound Food, is launching on Tuesday 1st April with 30 culinary writers. Subscribers will receive a daily newsletter, which can also be listened to as a mini podcast. CORQ’s analysis shows that the network is particularly appealing to 25 to 44 year-olds, with contributors such as Michelin-starred chefs and newspaper columnists. This move highlights the increasing demand for specialised culinary content, providing brands with a prime opportunity to connect with a highly engaged audience. (Read more)

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