Patreon expands with podcast networks and live streaming

What’s Happening? Big news from Patreon! The platform is adding podcast networks and live streaming to help creators earn more and engage their fans like never before. This move brings exciting new ways to build audiences and connect in real-time. Luís Rijo for PPC Land shares that these changes could revolutionize the way creators interact with their listeners.

What’s Happening? Sinners is making waves at the box office, nearly hitting $55 million in its four-day debut. With a storyline that connects deeply with its audience, the film’s success proves that niche movies can really hit it big. Anthony D'Alessandro from Deadline breaks it all down, showing how smart marketing is key to making this happen.

What’s Happening? Here’s the scoop on this week’s top branded videos featuring MrBeast, Ryan Trahan, and Mark Rober. These guys have teamed up with brands to create some seriously viral content, from MrBeast’s epic stunts to Ryan Trahan’s charity efforts and Mark Rober’s mix of fun and science. James Hale over at Tubefilter breaks down how these campaigns are changing the game in branded videos.

What’s Happening? Scott Mendelson over at Puck takes a closer look at how Sinners is performing at the box office. Despite mixed reviews, the film, directed by Ryan Coogler, has done surprisingly well in theaters. He breaks down why it's making waves and what this might mean for its long-term success.

What’s Happening? Pinterest is encouraging teens to take a break from scrolling during school with a new feature that reminds them to close the app. The move is part of the platform’s efforts to combat tech addiction and help users find balance. Dominic Preston reports for The Verge on this new update.

What’s Happening? Duolingo is venturing beyond languages and into the world of strategy with its newest offering: a chess course. Teaming up with Grandmaster Levy Rozman, the platform aims to make chess more accessible through its signature gamified learning style. Fast Company reports that this marks a strategic step in Duolingo’s mission to broaden its educational footprint.

What’s Happening?
 As food prices rise and brands scramble to capture attention, taste is quickly becoming the MVP. Companies are pushing bold flavors to not only keep customers coming back, but also make their mark in a crowded market. Fast Company dives into how a great taste can be your secret weapon for building a loyal following.

What’s Happening?
4chan may be "dead," but its influence on the internet lives on. From memes to toxic trolling, the site’s legacy has shaped platforms like X and YouTube in ways we still see today. WIRED takes a look at how this infamous corner of the web left its mark.

What’s Happening? Tariffs are throwing a wrench in the ad market, making things more expensive for brands and advertisers. Thanks to trade tensions, the price of digital ads is climbing, and marketers are scrambling to adjust. Axios’ Sara Fischer covers how advertisers are shifting budgets and platforms as they try to cope with the growing costs.

What’s Happening?
Donald Trump has tapped into the “manosphere” to connect with a younger, mostly male crowd. By jumping on podcasts like Joe Rogan’s and Theo Von’s, he reached millions who get their news outside the mainstream. As Sarah Frier reports for Bloomberg, this move helped Trump double down on his “alpha male” persona, which turned out to be a winning strategy for 2024.