Create and Consume | Life in the World of Social Media

Where did the year go?? In today’s episode (the last one of 2025!!) we’re doing a full creator reset routine to close out the year together. First, I’ll walk you through how to actually celebrate your wins (because you definitely had more than you remember!). Then we’ll reflect on the past twelve months with a year-end audit to figure out what worked, what didn’t, and where you want to go next. This will help you identify what was a good use of time, money and energy so you can replicate the successes in the new year. Finally, I’m sharing my go-to end-of-year creator checklist—from digital decluttering to updating your media kit to help you step into the new year feeling organized and inspired. I’m taking next week off for Christmas but will be back on Thursday, January 1st with a fun start of the year episode for you all!Mentioned in episode 83:Festive weekend in my life vlogHoliday party GRWM vlogChristmas in NYC guideNotion goals & planning hub1 year of podcastingPodcasting day in the lifeSteven Bartlett interviewBehind-the-scenes photo shoot vlogQuarterly reset Notion templateClean my MacFollow Create & Consume:YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | PinterestFollow Austen:YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | BlogPodcast inquiries can be sent to [email protected] the website: https://www.createandconsumepodcast.com/Music credit: Babak Bazgosha via Pond5

Want to become a morning person without forcing yourself to wake up at 4am? In this episode, I’m breaking down a realistic and sustainable approach to building morning habits you’ll actually look forward to. We’ll talk about the mindset and motivation behind waking up earlier, how gratitude can transform your mornings, and the core pillars of a morning routine that truly works for you. I’m also sharing why your morning routine shouldn’t look the same every day and how rotating routines based on your mood, energy, or schedule can make mornings feel easier and more intuitive. From creative mornings to active mornings, weekend resets, travel days, and everything in between, you’ll learn how to build a flexible “menu” of routines that support you no matter what life looks like. Whether you’re trying to create healthier habits, boost productivity, or simply start your day feeling more grounded, this episode has everything you need to finally become a morning person—in a way that feels natural and sustainable.Mentioned in episode 82:Dove blog postStranger Things recap videoStanley cupCurrentbody red light mask (code Austen for a discount)Under eye masksVitamin C serumTrader Joe’s hit list episodeNuulyFollow Create & Consume:YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | PinterestFollow Austen:YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | BlogPodcast inquiries can be sent to [email protected] the website: https://www.createandconsumepodcast.com/Music credit: Babak Bazgosha via Pond5

Influencer marketing has changed a lot in the last decade—from highly curated Instagram grids and daily blog posts to short-form video, UGC, and performance-driven brand partnerships. In this episode, I’m breaking down what influencer marketing looked like in 2015 vs what it looks like in 2025, and how creators can adapt to the modern creator economy. We’ll talk about the rise of blogs and DSLR-era Instagram, why it was easier to grow online in 2015, how brand deals were handled back then, and what made content feel more authentic. Then we’ll jump to 2025 and look at the explosion of short-form video, the shift toward sales and conversion metrics, the rise of UGC creators, paid usage, whitelisting, and why follower count matters less than ever. Whether you’ve been creating for years or you’re new to the space, this episode will help you understand the biggest shifts in social media and how to navigate the creator landscape today.Mentioned in episode 81:The holiday hubFirst Time Caller bookNYC intern diaries episodeTikTok ban update episodeTime articleCreator tips YouTube playlistIncome ideas YouTube videoCampaign wrap up templateFollow Create & Consume:YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | PinterestFollow Austen:YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | BlogPodcast inquiries can be sent to [email protected] the website: https://www.createandconsumepodcast.com/Music credit: Babak Bazgosha via Pond5

After today I am calling it the official kickoff to the holidays. In this festive episode of Create & Consume, I’m sharing my ultimate Christmas in NYC guide—from the best ice-skating spots and must-try hot chocolate to holiday markets, photo-worthy decorations, and a few hidden gems most visitors miss. I’m also breaking down my top tips for avoiding crowds so you can enjoy the magic of the city without the stress. If you’re planning a trip to New York during the holidays or just want that cozy Christmas-in-the-city vibe, this episode has everything you need to make the most of the season. Also, Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I’m so grateful that you’re here.Mentioned in episode 80:Date night passportWorking in retail episodeVlogmas video with Palace Christmas treePlaza seasonal decorFollow Create & Consume:YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | PinterestFollow Austen:YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | BlogPodcast inquiries can be sent to [email protected] the website: https://www.createandconsumepodcast.com/Music credit: Babak Bazgosha via Pond5

“Bag, coat!!” In this episode, I’m taking you inside my NYC fashion diaries and sharing the six fashion and publishing internships I completed during college from 2013–2016. From early mornings in Manhattan showrooms to learning the ropes inside glossy magazine offices, I’m breaking down what each internship taught me, how each one influenced the career I have today and the behind-the-scenes moments I’ll never forget. If you’re curious about getting started in fashion, want a peek into the publishing world, or were wondering how realistic The Devil Wears Prada actually is, this episode is packed with real stories, lessons, and industry insights.Mentioned in episode 79:Autumn weekend in my life vlogTomorrow and Tomorrow and TomorrowZero Waste DanielHunter Bell blog postAriana Grande behind-the-scenes videoFirst Nylon article I wroteDevon Ivie’s articlesWorking in retail episodeFollow Create & Consume:YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | PinterestFollow Austen:YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | BlogPodcast inquiries can be sent to [email protected] the website: https://www.createandconsumepodcast.com/Music credit: Babak Bazgosha via Pond5