YouTube is celebrating its 20th birthday with nearly 40 "Creator Collectives" in major U.S. cities

YouTube is marking its 20th anniversary with the launch of nearly 40 "Creator Collectives" across major U.S. cities. These hubs will offer networking, mentorship, and collaboration opportunities to support content creators in growing their platforms. As reported by Tubefilter's Sam Gutelle, this initiative highlights YouTube’s commitment to fostering a strong creator ecosystem and maintaining its leadership in digital video.

Substack’s attempt to expand beyond newsletters with video has seen slow adoption, as creators remain cautious about monetization and platform loyalty. Digiday’s Alexander Lee reports that while engagement is growing modestly, Substack faces a tough challenge in competing with established video platforms.

More brands are hopping on Substack, and it’s easy to see why. Ad Age, Asa Hiken highlights how the platform, once known for independent writers, is now a go-to for companies looking to ditch social media algorithms and connect directly with their audience. With email newsletters making a comeback, brands are betting on community-driven content to build stronger relationships.

FanDuel is stepping into the conversation on gambling addiction with a new show aimed at promoting responsible betting. As regulators push for more accountability, the series hopes to educate viewers while keeping them engaged. But as Business Insider’s Mackenzie Meaney points out, is this a real effort to tackle the issue or just good PR?

Remember when BuzzFeed thought viral content could dethrone Beyoncé? Turns out, not so much. Former editor Ben Smith shares how the company bet big on internet-driven media, only to find that mainstream icons still hold the cultural throne. Semafor dives into the rise and struggles of digital-first media in a world where legacy stars still reign supreme.

As mainstream social media becomes increasingly commercialized, users are gravitating toward smaller, niche communities that offer more authentic and personal interactions. These spaces, often built around shared interests and nostalgia, provide a sense of belonging and encourage real conversations. The New York Times' Paula Mejia highlights how this shift signals a growing preference for meaningful digital connections over algorithm-driven engagement.

Gen Z girls are taking over the Formula 1 fanbase, and social media is fueling their passion for the sport. Female content creators on TikTok and YouTube are making F1 more relatable by diving into race strategies, team drama, and the personalities behind the wheel. James Hale for Tubefilter points out that this trend is changing the game, proving just how powerful digital storytelling can be in expanding audiences.

Looks like P&G is winning the long game against Unilever! Thanks to strong sales, smart innovations, and a focus on high-end products, it’s pulling ahead while Unilever wrestles with restructuring and changing strategies. As Natasha Khan and Sharon Terlep, The Wall Street Journal point out. This proves that brand strategy and leadership stability can make or break a company’s momentum.

Dirty soda, a fizzy mix of soda, syrups, and cream, has taken off and now even big brands and restaurants are jumping on board. What started in Utah is now popping up everywhere, with chains like Sonic and Coca-Cola getting involved. As Jon Springer shares in Ad Age, the trend thrives on social media and nostalgia, leading to new partnerships and fun menu updates as people crave something indulgent and new.

UTA CEO Jeremy Zimmer is facing internal challenges as key executives depart, sparking concerns about the agency’s leadership and direction. Following years of expansion and acquisitions, dissatisfaction has grown, reflecting Hollywood’s evolving power dynamics. Matthew Belloni for Puck reports that the shake-up underscores the pressure on talent agencies to adapt to streaming-era economics and shifting industry models.