What’s Beating the Algorithm? TikTok Hashtag Trends to Watch
November 10, 2025
Hashtag trends are no longer just a way to categorize content, they’re the pulse of TikTok’s culture. Every day, millions of users scroll through feeds
Marketing
Why Consistency and Authenticity Are Key to Building a Loyal Fanbase
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Understanding How Audiences Engage with Digital Content Today
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The Psychology of Persuasion: Marketing Lessons from Behavioral Science
August 13, 2025
By: Dr. Connor Robertson If you want to master marketing, you need to master behavior. The most effective campaigns don’t just throw out offers or promises; they tap directly into the way people think, decide, and act. That’s where behavioral science comes in. As someone who has scaled ventures across real estate, private equity, and advisory work, I’ve seen firsthand how applying the principles of psychology transforms a business’s ability to capture attention and convert interest into revenue. In this article, I’ll break down the timeless, science-backed persuasion strategies I use in my businesses and with clients who want to dominate their market. Why Marketing Is Just Applied Psychology Marketing isn’t about being clever; it’s about understanding how humans already make decisions and aligning your message accordingly. The mistake most businesses make is assuming logic will win the day. But decision-making is emotional first, rational second. In real estate, this shows up when buyers fall in love with a home before they check the price. In private equity, it shows up when sellers choose the buyer they trust, even if they offer slightly less. Trust, emotion, and cognitive bias guide every major decision.As Dr. Connor Robertson, my marketing approach always
Twilight, Twitch, and Total Takeoff: The Viral Rise of Nyyxxii
July 31, 2025
By: Summer Robinson How a vampire name generator and chaotic charm helped one UK streamer build a global fanbase. It all started with vampire fanfic. Before the viral streams, the chaotic Instagram Reels, and a Twitch audience that tunes in for her every unfiltered moment, Nyyxxii was just a teenager writing Twilight-inspired stories online. Somewhere between moody main characters and midnight plot twists, she stumbled upon a vampire name generator — and a new identity was born. Fast forward a few years, and Nyyxxii (pronounced Nix-ee) has become a standout name in gaming and creator culture — with over 300K Instagram followers, a loyal Twitch community, and a no-BS presence that feels refreshing in a space often characterized by filters and facades. The Name That Started It All No, “Nyyxxii” wasn’t her childhood nickname — although she’ll joke that it was. The truth? “Pixie Nixie” was a cover story. The real inspiration came when she was 15 and obsessed with vampires. A name generator offered up “Nyx,” the Greek goddess of the night, and it just clicked. Unfortunately, “Nyx” and every normal variation of it were already taken by the time she launched her Twitch channel. So, she got creative.
The Science Behind Kindness: 5 Strategies from the Kindest Kid in America
July 23, 2025
By: Connie Etemadi Understanding Why Kindness Doesn’t Always Stick Today, as the founder of Kindest Kid in America, Jessie is using neuroscience-informed practices to foster cultural change in schools across the country. Her model moves beyond one-time initiatives and taps into how identity is formed, how recognition can shape behavior, and how rituals might help kindness become more of a reflex. Because kindness doesn’t always stick by chance. It tends to stick when it is deliberately designed. 1. Recognition Over Reward We’ve often been conditioned to say “good job” when a student shares their crayons. But Jessie encourages us to ask: what if we praised not just the action but the identity it reflects? Recognition is different from reward. While rewards are transactional, like “You did X, so you get Y,” recognition is transformative. It says, “This is who I see you becoming.” Instead of, “Thanks for helping,” imagine saying, “You’re the kind of person who notices when others need support. That’s a rare quality.” This kind of affirmation doesn’t just encourage behavior; it reinforces it. Neuroscience shows that when people are publicly affirmed, especially in formative years, the brain connects that affirmation to the self. Over time, it can
Blings Highlighted for Innovation in Marketing by NewsBlaze: Ushering In a New Era of Interactive Video Engagement
July 21, 2025
In a recent feature highlighting emerging marketing technologies, NewsBlaze recognized Blings for its contributions to interactive video and personalized content delivery. The company’s patented MP5 “video-as-code” format has drawn attention as a potential tool for addressing digital engagement challenges. In a year marked by increasing content fatigue, Blings’ approach offers an alternative to static marketing formats by enabling more tailored and immersive experiences. At the core of Blings’ platform is its MP5 technology—a proprietary video format that delivers lightweight, data-enhanced video (under 100 KB) to users’ devices. Unlike traditional pre-rendered MP4s or high-bandwidth formats, MP5 draws from real-time CRM data, edge computing, and HTML-based interactivity to generate dynamic video experiences on demand. “Blings revolutionizes static video into interactive experiences,” writes NewsBlaze, highlighting how the company enables brands to tailor content for millions of viewers without lag. From product recommendations to interactive CTAs, every video becomes a conversation rather than a broadcast. This format enables what Yahoo Finance describes as a shift from “passive loyalty tactics toward interactive, playful engagement,” a far cry from the templated personalization that has long dominated digital campaigns. The data behind Blings’ use cases has gained considerable attention. NewsBlaze highlights several campaigns that have achieved noteworthy
Jessica Fabus Cheng: The Market Your Business Might Be Overlooking
July 14, 2025
By: Emily Rumball When Jessica Fabus Cheng speaks about accessibility, she isn’t just sharing theories. She has lived it. As a rare thyroid cancer survivor who now lives with only 80% of her vocal function, Mrs. DC International 2025, podcast host, and inclusion strategist, Cheng has built her platform on a simple but often overlooked truth: accessibility is not merely a moral obligation. It can also be one of the most strategic and forward-thinking business decisions a brand considers. Yet many companies continue to underutilize this opportunity. A $10+ Million Market Hiding in Plain Sight In a rapid race for growth and scale, many brands easily fall into the trap of adopting the newest flashy trend, regardless of its long-term effectiveness. AI, influencer marketing, and viral campaigns all have their purpose, but many companies often overlook one of the most influential, brand-loyal, and significantly underserved markets across the globe: the disability community. When combined with their families, this group holds over $13 trillion in global buying power. That figure alone makes a compelling case for closer attention. However, in the face of this remarkable potential, accessibility is frequently dismissed with a sweeping generalization that it’s too costly, simply a compliance
Design You Can Feel CHITA’s Interactive Furniture Showcase Hits SummerFest This Weekend
July 2, 2025
By: Jay Feldman SummerFest’s final weekend (July 3rd-5th) promises to be a memorable experience on Milwaukee’s lakefront. Over the course of three music-packed weekends, crowds have already enjoyed performances by Hozier, The Killers, and Megan Thee Stallion. The festival’s last weekend brings acts like Benson Boone (July 3rd) and The Lumineers (July 5th), capping off a diverse music lineup. However, SummerFest has always been more than just the music; it’s a place where food trucks, art activations, and brand pop-ups elevate the festival experience. Adding a design-focused touch to the event, CHITA Living unveils an interactive lounge on the Lakewalk, offering festival-goers a comfortable spot to relax, recharge, and unwind in style between shows. Lakewalk Lounge: Where Music Meets Modern Living CHITA Living’s open-air “living room” is situated between the Lakewalk’s pathway lights and the soothing sounds of the harbor. Instead of traditional benches, visitors will find deep-seat Elara rattan sectionals facing the water and Acker swivel chairs angled toward the stages. The brand’s mantra, “Take a break, take a seat, take in the moment,” is displayed on a teal archway that doubles as an ideal backdrop for quick selfies. This setup thoughtfully caters to the natural flow of the
How Adetutu Laditan and Woof Studios Redefined Global Storytelling at Cannes Lions 2025
June 27, 2025
In a year defined by bold moves and breakout voices, one moment at Cannes Lions 2025 stood tall: Woof Studios Africa, founded by Adetutu Laditan, made history as the first African-led company to host a panel at the prestigious LIONS Creators Forum. Held on June 17 at the Creators Rooftop inside the iconic Palais des Festivals, the session titled “Cracking the Code with Africa’s Creators” wasn’t just a panel—it was a powerful cultural milestone. At the helm was Laditan, a former Google marketing leader turned creative economy powerhouse. With Woof Studios, she is redefining global narratives and putting African creators at the center of the conversation. Her mission is clear—empower Africa’s cultural storytellers, connect them with global opportunities, and ensure their stories are told by those who live them. And at Cannes, she delivered. The panel brought together four standout African creators whose work reflects the continent’s diversity, innovation, and impact: Ifeyinwa Joan Mogekwu, the visionary behind Ify’s Kitchen in Nigeria, who has built a loyal audience through culinary storytelling rooted in tradition and flavor. Cent Twinz, South African sisters Innocent Sadiki and Millicent Mashile, whose dynamic social content bridges borders and cultures. Enil Art, the Ghanaian digital artist who
Emotional Burnout: The Silence Within and the Path Back to Yourself
June 25, 2025
By: Mariia Borovensk, Firebird Pr Agency Introduction We live in an age of speed. Plans, deadlines, social expectations, responsibility to loved ones, trying to live up to the person we were yesterday… It’s easy to lose ourselves in the chaos. And at some point, we may simply stop feeling. Joy no longer excites us, achievements may start to feel less meaningful, the body may feel tired, and the soul weary. This is emotional burnout. It arrives quietly, often disguised as fatigue or a bad mood. But in reality, it’s the psyche’s way of signaling the need for rest. It could be an opportunity to pause, to listen to oneself, and to begin the journey back to balance. What Is Emotional Burnout? From a psychological standpoint, emotional burnout is a response to prolonged stress, overload, and insufficient recovery time. It is more than just tiredness; it represents a state in which inner resources can feel depleted on physical, mental, and emotional levels. Symptoms may include: Apathy or indifference toward things once loved Irritability A sense that life lacks meaning Fatigue even after rest or sleep Difficulty concentrating or remembering A feeling of emotional detachment or loneliness Burnout is not a reflection
How Feelings Fuel the Spread of Ideas
June 9, 2025
In the vast sea of information that surrounds us daily, certain messages, stories, or pieces of content manage to rise above the tide, capturing collective attention and spreading with remarkable speed. This phenomenon, known as virality, isn’t solely driven by logical appeal or practical utility. At its very core, the powerful engine fueling this widespread dissemination is often emotion. Feelings, both positive and negative, play a profound role in compelling individuals to share ideas, shaping what gains traction and what fades into obscurity. Read also: How Emotions Influence Decisions More Than Logic The Psychology of Emotional Sharing The link between emotion and sharing behavior is deeply rooted in human psychology. When content evokes a strong emotional response, it’s not merely a passive experience; it compels individuals to act. This is because emotions are inherently tied to arousal and action. Content that makes someone feel awe, anger, joy, or anxiety tends to leave a lasting impression and triggers a desire to communicate that feeling or experience to others. Sharing emotionally resonant content can serve several psychological functions. It allows individuals to express their feelings publicly, seeking validation or commiseration. It can also be a way to connect with others who feel similarly,
PR for Photographers: CEO Insights on Building Trust & Attracting Clients with Effective PR Strategies
June 6, 2025
By: Thrive Locally Marketing In today’s competitive photography industry, standing out and building trust with potential clients can be challenging. Public Relations (PR) has become a crucial tool for photographers looking to elevate their brand, showcase their expertise, and ultimately convert leads into bookings. In this interview, Tiffany Julie, founder of Photographers Advantage, shares her insights on how PR can help photographers scale their businesses and why it’s an essential part of any effective marketing strategy. Q: Tiffany, thank you for joining us today. As the founder of Photographers Advantage, you specialize in helping photographers scale their businesses. Why do you believe PR for photographers is essential for founders who want to grow? Tiffany Julie: Thank you for having me! PR can be an incredibly useful tool for photographers because it provides them with an opportunity to build credibility, visibility, and authority in their industry. Media features help elevate a photographer’s brand, allowing them to stand out in a competitive market. PR offers third-party validation from trusted outlets, which can enhance credibility. It’s not just about being seen; it’s about positioning yourself as a professional that potential clients feel comfortable trusting. Q: Can you tell us more about your PR
More Than Brunch: ‘Healing Through Purpose’ Redefines Mother’s Day as a Movement for Mental Wellness
May 30, 2025
By: Ciara Suesberry Healing Through Purpose wasn’t simply a brunch—it was a potential breakthrough. On Sunday, May 18, 2025, in the heart of Houston, over 50 women gathered for a deeply moving Mother’s Day experience hosted by Beyond the Celebration founder Brittney Davis. But unlike most springtime events, this one wasn’t built around baby bumps and flower crowns. Healing Through Purpose created space for the women whose motherhood stories began in silence: those who’ve faced infertility, miscarriage, or child loss—and who are still leading, loving, and showing up through it all. Presented during Mental Health Awareness Month, the event offered a sacred space where invisible grief became visible, and collective healing took center stage. Guests arrived at 1:30 PM to a warm pink carpet welcome, hosted by 713 News correspondent Darian Ellis, who spotlighted attendees and local leaders with heartfelt interviews. Inside, a floral-laced room buzzed with connection as mimosas flowed and soft music played. The event was curated by Berry Dynamic Agency, emceed by Houston changemaker Jonathan “Zoomania” Glover, and featured music by DJ Ervgotit, whose mission to empower underserved youth aligned with the day’s deeper purpose: finding meaning in pain. Founder Brittney Davis opened the program by sharing
The Microblades: A Fresh Take on Rock and the DIY Spirit of Music
May 29, 2025
By: The Microblades Since their formation in 2020, The Microblades have quickly made their mark on the San Diego music scene. With a distinctive blend of classic rock influences and modern sensibilities, the band has resonated with local audiences while steadily growing its fan base. Despite being relatively new to music, The Microblades have garnered significant recognition, including accolades such as Best Pop Song at the 2024 San Diego Music Awards. Their journey—driven by the passion and creativity of three talented women—has just begun, and their music continues to evolve as they reshape the rock genre in their image. The Formation of The Microblades The story of The Microblades begins with Giulietta Randell, the band’s guitarist and lead singer. At just 22 years old, Giulietta founded the band and serves as its principal songwriter. Growing up with a deep love for the ’60s and ’70s rock era, she found inspiration in legends like The Who and The Allman Brothers. Though often ridiculed for her “old man bands” taste, Giulietta’s connection to this music ran deeper than nostalgia—it was personal. Her emotional attachment to these songs and her desire to embody their mood fueled her mission to create music that spoke
Inside Julian Tillotson’s INDIRAP Approach to Content Strategy for Modern Brands
May 29, 2025
By: Samantha Draxler In a world where content plays an increasingly pivotal role in consumer engagement and attention is a scarce resource, Julian Tillotson has developed a distinctive approach to creative media. As the founder and creative lead of Chicago-based production company INDIRAP, Tillotson focuses on more than just aesthetics—he integrates strategic thinking typically used by social media influencers and applies it to everyday consumer-facing brands. This approach helps small businesses and professionals craft compelling digital narratives that support visibility and audience connection. “Every company is a media company now,” says Tillotson, seated in his contemporary West Loop studio, where past projects stream across surrounding monitors. “Whether you’re a personal injury attorney, a real estate agent, or a local gym—if you’re not building a recognizable presence, you risk becoming less visible in the market.” Tillotson launched INDIRAP in 2010 with a clear mission: to raise the standard for how businesses communicate visually and strategically. What began as a one-man operation producing music videos and club promos has grown into a creative agency that collaborates with a wide range of industries, from real estate and legal services to wellness brands. Much of this growth is rooted in treating each client’s content
When Fire Met Sound: The Love-Driven Revolution of ELUSIVE THUGS
May 28, 2025
By: Rick Lax When Love Set the Sky on Fire The moment VAYA VAYA met JACK WHITE, the sky didn’t stay the same. It turned from blue to wild shades of orange—flaming, cracked open, infinite. What began as a few heartfelt Facebook notes welcoming JACK to her hometown of Toronto in early 2025 soon became the first spark in a wildfire of creation, connection, and cosmic synchronicity. They weren’t just two artists meeting. They were two galaxies colliding. Together, they became ELUSIVE THUGS—not just a band, but a living, breathing force of music powered by intimacy, emotion, and unfiltered truth. In an industry dominated by replication, their union became a rebellion of originality—rooted not just in rhythm, but in raw devotion. More Than Music: A Manifesto of the Soul You don’t just hear ELUSIVE THUGS—you feel them crawling under your skin, cracking open the heart, whispering truths too real for radio. Their sound doesn’t arrive with a label—it erupts: experimental rock, ambient rebellion, spiritual warfare, cinematic sorrow… sometimes all at once. Their latest project, ACHAIAH 7: LOVE INTO PATIENCE, is a symphony of love as an elemental force. The kind that breaks you open, then teaches you how to build
Why ‘Mystery Box’ Subscription Services Are So Addictive
May 22, 2025
The rise of mystery box subscriptions has revealed something fascinating about human psychology. These services deliver curated packages of unknown items straight to customers’ doorsteps, creating a modern twist on the age-old thrill of unopened presents. While the contents vary by niche—from beauty products to collectibles—the underlying appeal remains consistent across categories. The phenomenon taps into deep-seated cognitive patterns that make these services more compelling than traditional shopping experiences. Read also: Navigating Music Licensing and Sync Deals for Media Placements The Psychology of Anticipation Human brains release more dopamine when anticipating rewards than when actually receiving them. Mystery boxes exploit this neurological quirk by extending the period between purchase and revelation. From the moment an order is placed, subscribers enter a state of pleasant suspense, imagining what might arrive. This mental engagement often proves more satisfying than conventional online shopping, where buyers know exactly what they’re getting before the package arrives. The uncertainty principle plays a crucial role in the experience. Unlike predictable purchases, mystery boxes maintain an element of chance that keeps subscribers coming back. Even when a box contains disappointing items, the possibility that the next one might contain something extraordinary maintains interest. This dynamic mirrors the same