In this episode of the InNOLEvation® Mindset Podcast powered by the Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship, host Mark McNees sits down with social media influencer Ashton Herndon. Ashton shares his journey from a passionate yet introverted teenager to a confident content creator with millions of views on TikTok and YouTube. They delve into Ashton's college experience at Florida State University, the evolution of his content, and how he navigates the challenges of balancing personal life and online presence. Ashton also shares insights on monetization strategies across various platforms, dealing with the weight of public perception, and the emotional impact of a recent tragic mass shooting event on campus at FSU. Don't miss this compelling conversation filled with valuable advice for aspiring influencers and heartfelt reflections on community and resilience.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:36 Ashton's College Journey

02:09 Becoming an Influencer

04:35 First Viral Video and TikTok Success

08:18 Evolving Content and Personal Branding

18:58 Monetization and Revenue Streams

38:51 Unexpected Connections and Earnings

39:16 Navigating Social Media Platforms

39:36 Personal Questions and Relationships

40:52 Balancing Content Creation and Personal Life

50:59 The Impact of the FSU shooting

01:06:44 Reflections and Future Steps

01:21:25 Final Thoughts and Farewell

#FSU #shooting #TikTok #Influencer