The Creator Confessionals Took Manhattan — And Everyone Had Something to Say

This summer, the creator economy found itself right at home in the city that never sleeps. Creator Economy Live East took over the New York Marriott Marquis in Times Square, bringing together brand leaders, creators, and marketers for two days of insight, innovation, and some very well-timed mic drops.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a proper industry affair without a bit of tea—and that’s where Jayde I. Powell came in. For the second time this year, the social strategist and creatorpreneur brought her signature Creator Tea Talk energy to the Creator Confessionals Booth, an activation that first turned heads at CEL West in Las Vegas.

But make no mistake: this wasn’t your typical conference booth. Once Jayde stepped in, it transformed into something else entirely—part lounge, part therapy session, part podcast. The city outside buzzed with bright lights and laughter, but inside, the conversations got real.

Creators and marketers alike leaned in to share what’s really happening behind the screens —the highs, the hurdles, and the truth about working in a space where “authenticity” has become both currency and cliché. There were confessions about burnout, brand politics, and the quiet pressure to always be “on.” And, as always, there were flashes of brilliance—reminders of why community continues to move the culture forward.

Beyond the noise of trends and tools, the creator confessionals held up a mirror—reflecting what truly powers this industry: people.

As the conference lights dimmed and the city shimmered in the glass towers above, one thought lingered among those who stepped into the booth: the best insights aren’t hidden in dashboards. They’re exchanged, quietly, between those who understand.