In today's society, social media plays a huge role in how creators are able to share their work and connect with audiences. However, relying solely on centralized platforms comes with some significant drawbacks when it comes to ownership, control, and online harassment. In this video, I discuss the experiences of one creator who struggled with toxicity on platforms and how it impacted them. I explore why so many feel forced to modify their authentic selves and censor important discussions. We'll also look at alternative models that put power back in the hands of content developers. Some of the key topics covered include: Why complete reliance on platforms like Twitter and Facebook can undermine artistic freedom The pros and cons of direct ownership through independent websites and communities Strategic ways to leverage multiple tools for both outreach and insulation from harassment Examples of balanced moderation practices that curate thoughtful exchange Hybrid models emerging to directly monetize work while retaining flexibility My hope is that by sharing this message, more creators will feel empowered to craft the sustainable and authentic virtual experiences they desire. So if you're interested in innovative solutions and artist empowerment, this one's for you. Hit play to get started! (When available, we use affiliate links and may earn a commission!) --- CREATOR TOOLS: ►Notion: https://notion.grsm.io/saizlstfeeri ►Nerd or Die: https://nerdordie.com/shop/ref/indiecreator/ ►Ecamm Live: https://www.ecamm.com/mac/ecammlive/?fp_ref=indiecreator ►Epidemic Sound: https://share.epidemicsound.com/q1miqk Get a 10% discount when you sign up for Beepbot Pro with the code “2TonWaffle” https://beepbot.app/ --- ?Keep up to date on everything within the independent creator space by signing up at https://indiecreatorhub.com --- ?️ SOCIAL NETWORKS Mastodon: https://feed.indiecreatorhub.com/@2TonWaffle TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@2tonwaffle Website: https://indiecreatorhub.com Threads: https://threads.net/@indiebasementhub --- Watch live here on YouTube or on one of the following services Twitch: twitch.tv/indiecreatorhub Owncast: https://live.indiecreatorhub.com TILvids: https://tilvids.com/c/indie_creator_hub_channel/videos --- Check out our community server! Discord: https://discord.gg/QZCY44YAwP --- Music used in many of our videos is from the following artists. Streambeats by Harris Heller - https://www.senpai.tv/ Streamsight - https://streamsight.net/ Backing Track - https://backingtrack.gg/ Epidemic Sound - https://share.epidemicsound.com/q1miqk Some links in this description are affiliate links and when clicked, if you buy the service or product, I may make a small commission from that sale. This helps keep this channel afloat. My opinions on products and services remain unbiased. ... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CH5jMGvqpLw