Top Of The Feed
Lately I’ve been reminded how relationships have seasons. Some bloom right away, others take time to come back around. But with more experience and perspective, I’ve learned to find peace in all of them — the arrivals, the pauses, and the returns.
In today’s climate, we’re often reminded of the importance of networking. But we have to remember that networking isn’t just about expanding. It’s also about deepening. The most valuable connections aren’t necessarily the newest ones. Many times they’re the ones that grow and resurface as we step into new phases of our lives and work.
When you evolve with intention, people find their way back. They may drift for a while, but the right ones often reappear when purpose aligns again.
So in the high-stress moments of now, don’t put too much pressure on your relationships. Let them bloom naturally. And like many things, trust the process. Trust that the right bonds will be found (or resurface) at exactly the right chapter.
Spotlight
Black Influencer To Follow: Dontae Catlett
Known for his high quality, video-forward approach, Dontae brings unmatched precision to every project. Through his latest company So Much Game, he offers creators and entrepreneurs helpful strategies for the business side of online influence, stemming from his own experience as a successful creator partner to many brands. He also was amazing on one of my past LIFEWTR campaigns.
@dontaecatlett 🤝🏽 “The Link Up” @So Much Game Where leaders connect and ideas soar. Be part of the story. Powered By @CapCut #somuchgame #thelinkup
Food For Thought
Networking isn’t just about building new relationships; it’s also about nurturing the ones you already have. The strongest ties are often built through consistent, thoughtful touches that sustain connection over time.
Here are a few tips to help you stay intentional as your network grows:
Share updates publicly. I’ll continue to repeat this one because it has so many benefits. Sharing your updates online is an easy way to show what you’re working on to people you don’t speak with regularly.
Follow on Instagram. I absolutely love LinkedIn, but connecting with someone on a more personal platform like Instagram as well gives you both more context into each other’s lives and helps keep you top of mind.
Turn coincidences into plans. If you keep running into the same person at events, use it as a segue to setup a 1:1.
Reimagine your +1s. Invite someone you’ve been meaning to reconnect with to join you at your next industry event. You get to kill two birds with one stone and provide them with value during.
Listen for alignment. Pay attention to what people love outside of work and reach out if you’re ever doing something similar. Shared interests create the most authentic touch points.
So ask yourself: How are you showing your network that you value connection?
Worth The Click
Instagram just launched Rings, a premium creator award program celebrating bold storytelling and influence across its 3 billion monthly users. Winners receive a custom designer ring and a golden profile ring icon, marking a new prestige moment in creator culture.
The creator economy made its mark at MIPCOM, the global entertainment market in Cannes where major networks and studios secure TV and streaming deals. From After Party Studios to Dhar Mann and Tubi, creator-led production models are proving they’re no longer on the sidelines as they shape the future of mainstream media.
Sephora just rolled out My Sephora Storefront, a creator-powered affiliate platform that lets influencers in the U.S. build personalized, shoppable storefronts inside Sephora’s website and app. With integrated analytics, loyalty-program access, and year-round commission opportunities, it marks further profree in creator commerce.
Behind The Feed
I missed sending out my newsletter last week, and that was because we were busy hosting the inaugural Social Setting LA. Every city really has such a special place in my heart, and LA ended up being no different.
In case you didn’t catch on socials, we tested out a brunch format this time at The Maybourne Beverly Hills. The vibes were dreamy, the people were engaged and our community brought in some amazing new additions.
Photos by @hiiamericaaa
You can check out our recap video, along with some of the other content on our Instagram: @getsocialfeed.
This week’s reflection on networking and old connections was also inspired by the event itself. I had the chance to reconnect with my former co-worker from 2019, Carlos Montoya, who now leads influencer marketing at Lush, and my college best friend Jayla Winston, who manages partnerships for the LA Rams. I also finally met Dontae Catlett (mentioned above) in person after following each other online for years. Not to mention, two old TikTok colleagues got to cross paths again for full circle moments all around.
I mean, this industry is so big and so small at the same time. I’m consistently reminded that you never know how your relationships will play out.
Before You Log Off
Every season brings back the people meant to grow with you.
