Ep 7. Who Gets to Be an Influencer?

In this episode of The New York Times Presents, titled "Who Gets to Be an Influencer?," viewers are taken behind the scenes of the world of social media influencers. The episode delves into the concept of influencer culture and asks the question: who gets to be an influencer?

Through interviews with both aspiring and established influencers, as well as industry experts and critics, the episode explores the often opaque and exclusive world of social media influencing. Viewers get a glimpse into the strategies and tactics that influencers use to build and maintain their personal brands, as well as the ways in which they interact with their followers and the wider online community.

The episode also reflects on the darker side of influencer culture, examining issues such as the pressure to project an idealized, polished image of oneself online, the commodification of authenticity, and the exploitation of users' data by tech companies.

In addition to exploring these broader themes, the episode also follows the journeys of several individual influencers, including a young woman trying to make it big on TikTok, a disabled artist using Instagram to connect with others, and a well-known YouTube creator grappling with the aftermath of a controversial video.

Overall, "Who Gets to Be an Influencer?" offers a nuanced and thought-provoking look at the complex world of social media influencing, questioning the societal values and power dynamics at play in this rapidly evolving space.