Dear Content Creator

Dear Content Creator

By Margarette LeandreEducationSelf-Improvement
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Dear Content Creator episodes

  • Landing Your First Brand Deal: The DOs & DON’Ts

    Landing your first brand deal is exciting — but what you do after the yes is what really matters. In this episode of Dear Content Creator, we’re breaking down the do’s and don’ts of brand deals so you can show up professionally, protect your work, and set yourself up for repeat opportunities.

    From reading contracts and clarifying expectations to common mistakes that can quietly cost you future collaborations, this episode walks you through how to handle brand deals like a business — even if it’s your very first one.

    If you’ve recently landed a brand deal (or you know it’s coming soon), consider this your guide to navigating partnerships with confidence, clarity, and intention.


    For updates on the latest creator news and events, ⁠⁠Subscribe to the newsletter.

    36 min
  • 24. How Creators Actually Get Invited to PR Events

    Dear Content Creator, have you ever watched your favourite influencers attending PR events and thought, “Okay… but how do I get invited?”

    If you’ve ever been curious about how PR lists work, what brands look for, and how creators actually land those coveted invites, this episode is for you. We’re breaking down the world of PR events — what they are, how creators get on the guest list, and how to show up in a way that builds relationships and opens doors.

    I’ll be sharing the behind-the-scenes of my own PR experiences, from DoorDash’s #BlackFoodEnergy launch to events with Global TV, StackTV, Law & Order Toronto, and Tim Hortons. My goal is to help you understand the strategy behind these invitations so you can position yourself with confidence and intention.


    In this episode, I’ll discuss:

    • What PR events really are and why brands host them
    • How creators get invited (and how to get on PR radars)
    • The relationship-building strategies that lead to repeat invites
    • How to make the most out of every event once you’re in the room


    Things I’m Loving Right Now

    Bad Influencer – This Netflix South African series breaks down influencer culture in a way that’s binge-worthy and entertaining, especially if you’re a creator who loves understanding how our industry works behind the scenes, in a dramatic way


    For updates on the latest creator news and upcoming events,
    Subscribe to the newsletter: https://charismaggietv.myflodesk.com/dearcontentcreator


    24 min
  • 23. Creator Business 101: Turn Your Passion Into Profit

    Dear Content Creator, are you treating your creator journey like a business — or just creating content?

    If you’ve ever wondered what it really means to build a sustainable creator business, this episode is for you. We’re breaking down the business side of content creation — from registering your business and tracking expenses to building systems and knowing your worth.
    I’ll be sharing the exact steps I took to build my creator business from scratch, how I made over $100,000 through content creation, and the key lessons I’ve learned about treating your creativity like the business it already is. My goal is to help you lay the right foundation so your passion doesn’t just stay a hobby — it becomes a sustainable, profitable brand.
    In this episode you’ll hear:
    • The essential steps to turn your content creation into a real business
    • Why you need to register your business and open a separate bank account
    • How to track your money, build systems, and know your worth
    • Ways to fund your creator business and when to ask for help
    Things I’m Loving Right Now
    ⁠Ownr – If you’re in Canada and ready to register your business, Ownr makes it simple. You can register as a sole proprietor or incorporate in just a few clicks, manage changes easily, and even access partner perks with RBC, QuickBooks, and more.
    👉 https://www.ownr.co
    For updates on the latest creator news and events, ⁠⁠Subscribe to the newsletter.
    https://charismaggietv.myflodesk.com/dearcontentcreator

    39 min
  • 22. How to Fund Your Creator Dreams with Grants

    Dear Content Creator, have you ever wondered how to fund your big ideas without breaking the bank? If so, this episode is for you. We’re talking all about grant opportunities for content creators — where to find them, what you need to know before applying, and how to set yourself up for success.

    I’ll be sharing the strategies I use to source funding opportunities, the key things to prepare before you hit submit, and my own experience with receiving grants to fund creative projects. My goal is to show you that funding is within reach if you know where to look and how to approach it.

    In this episode you’ll hear:

    • How to source and track grant opportunities as a creator
    • What to keep in mind before applying (eligibility, documents, and common mistakes to avoid)
    • My personal journey of receiving funding and lessons learned along the way
    • Things I'm loving right now

      ⁠Notion⁠- Not only do I use this to stay organized, but I also use it to track grants I want to apply for and you can too with their custom templates or make your own from scratch


      Oct 2025 Grant opportunities

      Amplifia x Ontario Creates Interactive Digital Media Fund

      Digital Creators Pilot Program

      Independent Production Fund


      For updates on the latest creator news and events, ⁠⁠Subscribe to the newsletter


      48 min
    • 21. 9 Mistakes I've Made as a Content Creator

      Dear Content Creator, what if I told you that some of my biggest creator “glow-ups” came from my biggest mistakes? In today’s conversation, I’m pulling back the curtain on the 9 mistakes I’ve made in my 9 years as a content creator and the lessons they taught me. From creating without research, to working for “exposure,” to waiting to monetize on the platforms directly, I’m sharing the moments that made me cringe, rethink, and ultimately grow.

      If you’ve ever felt like you’re winging it, wondering why things aren’t clicking, or just want to learn from someone else’s “oops” so you can skip a few bumps in the road, this episode is for you.

      My digital product is FINALLY here!

      The Ultimate Playbook for Content Creation Success

      Things I’m Loving Right Now

      Beanable – Earn commission for your recommendations

      Join now


      For updates on the latest creator news and events, ⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to the newsletter

      45 min
    • 20. Shoot Your Shot: How I Got Featured on Stan Store & Selected for Pinterest’s Inclusion Fund

      Let’s talk about the power of just going for it. In this episode, I’m sharing how shooting my shot opened unexpected doors — like getting featured on Stan Store and being selected as one of only 10 Canadians for Pinterest’s Inclusion Fund program. These wins didn’t come from waiting — they came from putting myself out there. If you’ve been sitting on an idea or holding back from pitching yourself, this is your sign to make a move.


      Download my free checklist for the 9 Must-Have Tools for Content Creators

      https://stan.store/charismaggie?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAafqgqr4wXDYlM8nWhxBZgnLPYB-w-KaWTz5OaAuKA1tLf3XahjOGbeQjzTrNA_aem_TfxDdau-R0wRzEFe2FAtGg


      37 min
    • 19. I Thought Rest Was Giving Up—I Was Wrong

      What happens when the pressure to 'have it all together' becomes the very thing breaking you apart? In this raw, honest episode, I'm sharing the story of how I went from thinking rest was a luxury I couldn't afford to realizing it was the foundation of everything I wanted to build.

      From juggling a demanding new job with content creation to dealing with draining clients and the constant guilt of 'not posting enough,' I'll walk you through the perfect storm that led to my breaking point—and the unexpected retreat that changed everything.

      If you've ever felt like slowing down meant giving up, or if you're caught in the cycle of believing your worth is measured by how much you can handle without breaking, this episode is for you. Sometimes the most productive thing you can do is rest.


      For updates on the latest creator news and events, ⁠⁠Subscribe to the newsletter⁠


      31 min
    • 18. More Than Brand Deals: Building Multiple Income Streams as a Creator

      Dear Content Creator, how many ways are you getting paid for the value you bring online? If the answer is “not enough,” this episode is for you. In today’s conversation, we’re talking about the importance of diversifying your income as a creator—because depending on brand deals alone isn’t sustainable.

      I’m breaking down the risks of relying on a single income stream, sharing multiple ways creators can earn online (even with a small audience), and opening up about my own goal to finally launch my first digital product. If you’ve ever felt stuck between burnout and chasing the next gig, this episode will give you permission and a plan to build something more sustainable.

      Plus, a personal note to my future self that might just speak to you too.


      Things I’m Loving Right Now
      Repurpose.io- Repurpose content on auto pilot

      https://repurpose.io/charismaggie?fpr=25087
      Stan Store- The store for creators to create and sell courses, e-books and more

      https://join.stan.store/charismaggie


      For updates on the latest creator news and events, ⁠⁠Subscribe to the newsletter

      40 min
    • 17. Why Content Creators Need to Show Up IRL: The Power of Attending Events

      If you’re only networking in the DMs, you’re leaving major opportunities on the table.

      In this episode of Dear Content Creator, I’m breaking down why showing up to events can completely shift your journey as a creator. Since 2023, I’ve attended over 20 events — from intimate brand dinners to massive creator conferences — and each one gave me insights, connections, and opportunities I couldn’t have Googled.

      In this episode, I talk about some of the benefits of attending events including:

      ✨ How real-life networking builds stronger trust than DMs
      ✨ Why brand reps remember you when you show up in person
      ✨ The insider convos happening off-stage that can change your next move
      ✨ How events can spark clarity and creative momentum
      ✨ Where to find your fit in a crowded creator landscape


      Plus, in this week’s Creator Scoop I’m spotlighting an upcoming creator event you don’t want to miss

      1. Saturday, May 3rd- Soplugged Creator Workshop ft Jessica Ufuoma. Learn how to build a 6-figure creator business

      Use code DCC-15 for 15% off tickets 🎟️

      2. Sunday, May 4th- Soundwave Summit- Learn all things podcasting

      3. Tuesday, May 6th- Black Builders Networking Event- Effective ways to leverage loans, grants and more.


      For updates on the latest creator news and events, ⁠Subscribe to the newsletter



      36 min
    • 16. Netflix, We Need to Talk: Why 'Pop the Balloon' Live Didn’t Pop Off

      What happens when a viral YouTube series gets picked up by a major platform… and completely flops? In this episode of Dear Content Creator, I’m reacting live to Netflix’s version of Pop the Balloon and sharing my honest thoughts on what went wrong. We’re getting into the importance of respecting the original audience, the shift in energy when content is adapted for mainstream platforms, and what creators can learn when turning digital content into big-budget productions.

      Plus, I’m diving into:

      • What made the original series so special
      • Where the Netflix version missed the mark
      • Why audience trust matters more than high production value

      • If you're a creator dreaming of adapting your content for TV or streaming, this episode is a must-listen!

        25 min

      About Dear Content Creator

      From the publisher's feed

      Welcome to Dear Content Creator, the ultimate podcast for creators who work tirelessly behind the scenes—conceptualizing, filming, editing, and hustling every day. Hosted by CharisMaggie, this podcast is more than a podcast; it's a love letter to the underdogs in the creator world. Whether you’re just starting out or already on the move, this space is for you to feel seen, heard, and appreciated. 🎙️