Trump, Squirrels, & Casey Neistat?
Welcome to Created, the newsletter that’s more reliable than US election polls. Here’s what we got for you:
PS we launched a new job board for creators! See below.
Instagram Squirrel Sparks Outrage for "Pet-fluencers"
The U.S. election put a spotlight on the economy, immigration, and…an Instagram-famous squirrel?
Actually. Peanut the Squirrel (836K followers) became a political talking point…and cautionary tale for pet influencers.
Backstory:
On October 30, NY authorities raided the home of Mark Longo, who owns Peanut.
Longo didn’t have a wildlife permit, and neighbors complained about “unsafe housing.”
After seizing Peanut the squirrel and Fred the raccoon (another of Longo's pets), both animals were euthanized to test for rabies. Longo alleges since no one was bitten, this was not necessary — calling the raid a tragedy and a disgrace."
Peanut vs Other Pet Influencers:
Thumbelina, another squirrel influencer, also lives with her owners in NY.
The difference? Thumbelina’s owners are Certified Wildlife Rehabbers.
In NY, keeping wildlife as pets is illegal without permits — even if they’re Instagram-famous.
An OnlyFans Twist
"I think there's an ulterior motive here," Mark said. "It seems it has to do with my spicy social media presence."
Since launching last week, Mark’s GoFundMe to honor Peanut’s memory raised over $210,000.
Then It Got Really Bizarre…
Vice President-elect JD Vance said, "Is it really the case that the Democrats murdered the Elon Musk of squirrels? The same government that doesn’t care about illegal immigrant criminals doesn’t want us to have pets."
Our Take:
With the election behind us, political commentary about Peanut will settle down.
But expect it to raise questions about the ethics of pet influencers now that it’s in the national spotlight.
Especially given the long history of owners “replacing” their pet influencers after they passed (RIP Keyboard Cat and Harlow and Sage).
Casey Neistat Opens Up About David Dobrik Documentary
I interviewed Casey Neistat who shared details on his long-awaited documentary on David Dobrik.
After years of filming, he revealed that he doesn't think his documentary will ever see the light of day.
Backstory:
"I’m extremely conflicted."
What started as a celebration of Dobrik turned into an exploration of fame’s darker side.
Neistat has said the documentary lets Dobrik tell his own side, though Dobrik ultimately struggled to take responsibility for his actions.
It’s left Neistat in a tough spot: he feels torn between protecting Dobrik and honoring the stories of those impacted.
Quote: “I still don’t know why I haven’t put it out there. As much as I’m ashamed to admit it, a part of me still deeply cares for David. It might be about protecting him from himself. But I also feel a responsibility to the victim."
Where They Stand Now
Today, Neistat said his relationship with Dobrik is nonexistent.
But he’s left the door open for Dobrik, saying he’d be there if Dobrik ever wanted to reach out.
Ultimately, Neistat’s documentary represents a harsh truth about the pressures and pitfalls of digital fame — one that’s still waiting for its final audience.
?? Weekly Roundup: Thumbnails
Here's why we love these YT thumbnails. Hopefully they inspire your next one.
?? Outlier of the Week
This video by Bricks And Disorder got 5X more views than the channel’s average. Here's why it took off:
Create Your Perfect Thumbnail With Spotter
As creators, we know how crucial a good thumbnail is…But we also know the dread of opening up Photoshop without a single idea.
That’s why I use Spotter Studio.
With just a few words explaining my concept, Spotter Studio instantly generates a whole range of easily customizable thumbnail options.
And with their new Thumbnail Styles feature, I can see the thumbnails in multiple ways.
Concept Art lets you understand the idea instantly. Sketch helps with understanding composition. Need to see something close to a final product? Turn on Realistic.
Honestly, the inspiration from these tools has changed our entire design process for thumbnails.
Click here to try Spotter Studio for 60 days free (that’s 30 days more than the regular trial).
Powered by YT Jobs
?? Job Board
This week, we’re kicking off a new section to share job opportunities from top creators:
?? See You Inside
Subscribe to the newsletter so you don't miss the next one.
After all, nothing great is created alone. Talk soon,
Jon
Great insights! The variety of topics covered in Created always keeps readers engaged and informed. Excited to dive into this new issue! Jon Youshaei
I help business owners grow 10k targeted followers in 180 days and attract inbound leads.
2 周A fresh issue of Created always brings new insights! What's the highlight we shouldn’t miss this time?
Associate Producer, Digital Spaghetti (Patreon) | I ghostwrite Educational Email Courses for creator entrepreneurs. | Creator Economy Enthusiast.
2 周so cool to see our show Digital Spaghetti featured! appreciate the shoutout Jon
FYI, Jon, if you followed the Peanut drama, the person who reported Mark Longo was not his neighbor, but instead a woman from Texas who knew nothing about him other than his address and her desire to cause a malevolent occurrence. Mean people.
CEO at Veridian Industries Inc.| Stanford GSB | Wharton (M&T) | ex-Sandia Labs
2 周?? ??? ???? ??