In this episode of Invested, Isaac Hayes III sits down with journalist and Fanbase Head of Comms and Partnership Noah Washington to examine who holds power in today’s creator-driven media economy, and who pays the price when that power is abused.

The conversation opens with allegations against fast-fashion giant Shein after Black-owned Atlanta brand Dulsè accused the company of using its promotional image without permission, removing brand identifiers, and allegedly altering a model’s skin tone. What starts as a copyright dispute quickly raises larger questions about cultural erasure and the imbalance between global corporations and independent creators.

From there, Isaac and Noah explore mounting concerns around silent algorithmic suppression on TikTok, as news creators warn that political content is being quietly deprioritized ahead of increased government scrutiny. The discussion highlights how reduced visibility, not outright bans, may define the next phase of media control.

The episode also looks at the personal cost of building public brands, using the highly publicized divorce of influencer Kristy Scott to examine how audiences, platforms, and partnerships respond when curated narratives unravel.

On a global scale, the conversation turns to creator IShowSpeed’s viral tour across Africa and its role in reshaping perceptions of the continent for millions of young viewers, demonstrating how independent creators can challenge long-standing narratives without traditional media gatekeepers.

The episode concludes with a sober examination of civil rights and government messaging, including the wrongful ICE detention of a U.S. citizen and controversy surrounding a DHS recruitment post tied to extremist symbolism, raising concerns about profiling, accountability, and public trust.

This episode offers a clear-eyed look at how culture, technology, and power intersect, and why creators, platforms, and audiences must navigate this moment with awareness, responsibility, and long-term thinking.

Invest now starting at $399 for 60 shares at https://bit.ly/4pAiq9e. Join the movement building creator-owned infrastructure for the culture economy.

This Reg. A+ offering is made available through StartEngine Primary LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Please read the OFFERING CIRCULAR, disclosure and related risks before investing. This investment is speculative, illiquid, and involves a high degree of risk, including the possible loss of your entire investment.