Shows
Dear Content CreatorLanding Your First Brand Deal: The DOs & DON’TsLanding your first brand deal is exciting — but what you do after the yes is what really matters. In this episode of Dear Content Creator, we’re breaking down the do’s and don’ts of brand deals so you can show up professionally, protect your work, and set yourself up for repeat opportunities.
From reading contracts and clarifying expectations to common mistakes that can quietly cost you future collaborations, this episode walks you through how to handle brand deals like a business — even if it’s your very first one.
If you’ve recently landed a brand...
2025-12-3135 min
Dear Content Creator24. How Creators Actually Get Invited to PR EventsDear Content Creator, have you ever watched your favourite influencers attending PR events and thought, “Okay… but how do I get invited?”
If you’ve ever been curious about how PR lists work, what brands look for, and how creators actually land those coveted invites, this episode is for you. We’re breaking down the world of PR events — what they are, how creators get on the guest list, and how to show up in a way that builds relationships and opens doors.
I’ll be sharing the behind-the-scenes of my own PR experiences, from DoorDash’s #BlackFoodEner...
2025-11-1423 min
Dear Content Creator23. Creator Business 101: Turn Your Passion Into ProfitDear Content Creator, are you treating your creator journey like a business — or just creating content?
If you’ve ever wondered what it really means to build a sustainable creator business, this episode is for you. We’re breaking down the business side of content creation — from registering your business and tracking expenses to building systems and knowing your worth.
I’ll be sharing the exact steps I took to build my creator business from scratch, how I made over $100,000 through content creation, and the key lessons I’ve learned about treating your creativity like the business it already is. My goal...
2025-11-0738 min
Dear Content Creator22. How to Fund Your Creator Dreams with GrantsDear Content Creator, have you ever wondered how to fund your big ideas without breaking the bank? If so, this episode is for you. We’re talking all about grant opportunities for content creators — where to find them, what you need to know before applying, and how to set yourself up for success.
I’ll be sharing the strategies I use to source funding opportunities, the key things to prepare before you hit submit, and my own experience with receiving grants to fund creative projects. My goal is to show you that funding is within reach if you kn...
2025-10-0247 min
Dear Content Creator21. 9 Mistakes I've Made as a Content CreatorDear Content Creator, what if I told you that some of my biggest creator “glow-ups” came from my biggest mistakes? In today’s conversation, I’m pulling back the curtain on the 9 mistakes I’ve made in my 9 years as a content creator and the lessons they taught me. From creating without research, to working for “exposure,” to waiting to monetize on the platforms directly, I’m sharing the moments that made me cringe, rethink, and ultimately grow.
If you’ve ever felt like you’re winging it, wondering why things aren’t clicking, or just want to learn from someone...
2025-08-1444 min
Dear Content Creator20. Shoot Your Shot: How I Got Featured on Stan Store & Selected for Pinterest’s Inclusion FundLet’s talk about the power of just going for it. In this episode, I’m sharing how shooting my shot opened unexpected doors — like getting featured on Stan Store and being selected as one of only 10 Canadians for Pinterest’s Inclusion Fund program. These wins didn’t come from waiting — they came from putting myself out there. If you’ve been sitting on an idea or holding back from pitching yourself, this is your sign to make a move.
Download my free checklist for the 9 Must-Have Tools for Content Creators
https://stan.store/cha...
2025-07-2436 min
Dear Content Creator19. I Thought Rest Was Giving Up—I Was WrongWhat happens when the pressure to 'have it all together' becomes the very thing breaking you apart? In this raw, honest episode, I'm sharing the story of how I went from thinking rest was a luxury I couldn't afford to realizing it was the foundation of everything I wanted to build.
From juggling a demanding new job with content creation to dealing with draining clients and the constant guilt of 'not posting enough,' I'll walk you through the perfect storm that led to my breaking point—and the unexpected retreat that changed everything.
If yo...
2025-07-0330 min
Dear Content Creator18. More Than Brand Deals: Building Multiple Income Streams as a CreatorDear Content Creator, how many ways are you getting paid for the value you bring online? If the answer is “not enough,” this episode is for you. In today’s conversation, we’re talking about the importance of diversifying your income as a creator—because depending on brand deals alone isn’t sustainable.
I’m breaking down the risks of relying on a single income stream, sharing multiple ways creators can earn online (even with a small audience), and opening up about my own goal to finally launch my first digital product. If you’ve ever felt stuck between bu...
2025-05-2239 min
Dear Content Creator17. Why Content Creators Need to Show Up IRL: The Power of Attending EventsIf you’re only networking in the DMs, you’re leaving major opportunities on the table.
In this episode of Dear Content Creator, I’m breaking down why showing up to events can completely shift your journey as a creator. Since 2023, I’ve attended over 20 events — from intimate brand dinners to massive creator conferences — and each one gave me insights, connections, and opportunities I couldn’t have Googled.
In this episode, I talk about some of the benefits of attending events including:
✨ How real-life networking builds stronger trust than DMs
✨ Why brand reps remember you...
2025-05-0135 min
Dear Content Creator16. Netflix, We Need to Talk: Why 'Pop the Balloon' Live Didn’t Pop OffWhat happens when a viral YouTube series gets picked up by a major platform… and completely flops? In this episode of Dear Content Creator, I’m reacting live to Netflix’s version of Pop the Balloon and sharing my honest thoughts on what went wrong. We’re getting into the importance of respecting the original audience, the shift in energy when content is adapted for mainstream platforms, and what creators can learn when turning digital content into big-budget productions.Plus, I’m diving into:
What made the original series so special
Where the Netflix version missed the mark
W...
2025-04-1724 min
Dear Content Creator15. How Canadian Creators Can Get Ready for Tax SeasonTax season doesn’t have to be scary, especially when you’re prepared. In this episode, we’re breaking down everything Canadian creators need to know to file confidently, maximize your tax savings, and keep more of your hard-earned money.
💡 In this episode, we cover:
The difference between a sole proprietorship and incorporation (and which one is best for you)
How to track your income and expenses like a pro (plus common write-offs you shouldn’t miss)
When to register for GST/HST—and why it might benefit you even under $30K
What you need to know about CP...
2025-04-0836 min
Dear Content Creator14. Beauty Standards & Content Creation: Battling Seborrheic Dermatitis + Sephora Squad CanadaDear Content Creator, have you ever felt like you had to fit into a certain beauty standard just to be taken seriously online?In this episode, I’m getting real about the impact of beauty standards on content creators, from the pressure to always look “put together” to the unspoken rules of who gets visibility and opportunities. I’m also sharing my personal journey with seborrheic dermatitis—how it’s affected my confidence and why I almost let it hold me back from showing up online.Plus, I’ll be talking about why I applied...
2025-04-0136 min
Dear Content Creator13. 2025 Social Media Updates: What Canadian Content Creators Need to Know"Keeping up with social media updates feels like a full-time job. Every platform is rolling out new features, promising to help creators grow, monetize, and streamline their workflow. But if we're being honest, they are all competing with each other for our attention. As creators, it's up to us to leverage those opportunities. In this episode, we’re diving into the latest game-changing updates from Instagram, YouTube, and Snapchat,Plus, in The Creator’s Mailbox, I’m answering a question from one of you: Social media changes so fast—what’s the best way to stay updat...
2025-03-2542 min
Dear Content Creator12. The Double Life of a Content Creator: 9-5 by Day, Creator by NightLet’s be real—juggling a full-time job and content creation isn’t easy, but it’s absolutely possible! In this episode, we’re talking about making a content calendar, setting realistic goals for yourself, how to leverage your 9-5 for content creation and setting boundaries between your 9-5 and content. If you’ve ever wondered how to make content creation fit into your already packed schedule, this episode is for you!Plus, in our latest segment The Creator’s Mailbox, I’m answering a question from one of you. THINGS I'M LOVING RIGHT NOW...
2025-03-1840 min
Dear Content Creator11. 2024 Canadian Creator Year in Review: Industry Changes, Personal Wins & 2025 Predictions"In this season finale of Dear Content Creator, host ChariMaggie reflects on an eventful 2024, highlighting personal milestones, professional achievements, and lessons learned along the way. From career wins to strengthening relationships, this episode is all about growth and gratitude.Plus, get a sneak peek at what's in store for 2025 and beyond.00:00 Introduction and Year-End Reflection00:27 Welcome to Dear Content Creator01:05 Holiday Vibes and Personal Updates01:47 Small Business Plug 03:35 Reflecting on 202406:46 Personal Milestones and Relationships12:23 Professional Growth and Achievements19:46 Looking Forward to 2025
2024-12-0328 min
Dear Content Creator10. Your secret weapon to brand deals: A Media KitIn this episode of Dear Content Creator, CharisMaggie dives into the importance of having a media kit as a content creator. She breaks down what a media kit is, why it’s essential for building partnerships, and how it can set you apart when pitching to brands or collaborators. Tune in for advice, tools, and real-life examples to help you make a lasting impression.Community Shoutout- Michelle, podcast host for A Shot of MelaninTHINGS I'M LOVING RIGHT NOWCanva*I get a small commission wh...
2024-11-2629 min
Dear Content Creator9. Start With What you Have- Creator EssentialsIn this episode of Dear Content Creator, CharisMaggie talks about the importance of starting with what you have. This episode is packed with practical advice to help you take that first step and make progress without feeling overwhelmed by the need for perfection.I’ll share insights from my journey, including lessons learned about embracing imperfection and making the most of limited resources. Plus, I’m recommending some of my favourite beginner-friendly tools and software that can help you level up your content game without breaking the bank. From editing tools to productivity hacks, you’ll walk away w...
2024-11-1935 min
Dear Content Creator8. How to Get Started as a Content CreatorIn this episode of Dear Content Creator, host CharisMaggie introduces a three-part series called 'Back to the Basics.' She discusses how new content creators can start by defining their purpose and audience, choosing the right platform, and focusing on consistency over perfection. CharisMaggie also emphasizes the importance of knowing your 'why' and shares insights from her eight years of experience. Plus, she introduces a new segment called 'Creator ShoutOut' and updates listeners on recent TikTok Canada news.00:00 Introduction: Starting Your Content Creation Journey00:32 Welcome to Dear Content Creator Podcast02:30...
2024-11-1236 min
Dear Content Creator7. Creator Economy vs Traditional TV and Film: How Creators Are Disrupting HollywoodIn this episode of Dear Content Creator host Charismaggie explores the shrinking gap between traditional film and television industries and the world of content creators. She discusses the opportunities and challenges of transitioning from online platforms to Hollywood, sharing her personal journey with her web series 'Kitchens of Toronto.' Charismaggie also highlights notable creators like Issa Rae, Lilly Singh, and Bo Burnham, who successfully made the leap from digital content to mainstream film and television, what helped them and lessons creators can take away from their journey to navigate this landscape.Check out Kitchens of Toronto
2024-11-1242 min
Dear Content Creator6. The Business Behind Content CreationDid you know that as a content creator, you’re also a small business owner? In this episode of Dear Content Creator, host Charismaggie explores the business side of content creation, uncovering the investments of time, money, and effort needed to turn passion into profit. From the evolution of monetization methods, starting with YouTube's partnership program in 2007, to the rise of TikTok and the diversification of income streams like digital products and user-generated content (UGC), discover actionable advice to boost your earnings.THINGS I'M LOVING RIGHT NOWIf you're a podcaster or vi...
2024-10-2637 min
Dear Content Creator5. Feeling stuck? It’s Time to Pivot. STOP Overthinking and Switch It Up!In this episode of Dear Content Creator, CharisMaggie dives into how to pivot when your current content isn’t working. Whether you’re losing motivation or feeling like your niche is no longer serving you, this episode covers actionable tips to help you navigate the pivot process:
Evaluate your current content strategy—what’s working and what’s not?
Communicate with your audience and be open to feedback.
Experiment without fear! Testing new formats and ideas can help you find your new path.
Things I'm loving right nowIf you're a podcaster or video c...
2024-10-1931 min
Dear Content Creator4. Getting your content to be perfect is OVERRATED. JUST POST Already!In today’s episode, CharisMaggie dives into the ups and downs of staying motivated as a content creator, especially when creativity feels out of reach. We explore practical ways to push through these slumps, along with finding a niche that feels authentic and building partnerships that truly resonate. Tune in for insights and strategies to help you stay inspired, create from a place of purpose, and cultivate meaningful connections in the creator space.THINGS I'M LOVING RIGHT NOWhttps://www.creativepeptalk.com/Video from Katie Steckly mentioned in...
2024-10-1229 min
Dear Content Creator3. Your fear of being seen is holding you back. POST the damn contentIn this episode of Dear Content Creator, CharisMaggie dives into a topic that many creators struggle with — the fear of being seen. Are you holding back on posting content because of perfectionism or fear of judgment? This episode explores why so many of us hesitate to hit "post" and how to overcome those mental roadblocks. We’ll talk about navigating insecurities, dealing with the pressures of online critique, and how to release yourself from the need to be perfect. If you've ever felt stuck because you're worried about what others will think, this one's for you.
2024-10-0530 min
Dear Content Creator2. Can we have an honest convo about mental health?In honour of Suicide Awareness Month, this episode is a deeply personal and reflective conversation about the mental health challenges that many of us face as content creators. CharisMaggie opens up about her journey, sharing how burnout, impostor syndrome, and the constant pressure to stay relevant on social media have impacted her mental health. We also dive into the broader conversation around how the online world can shape our well-being, and the importance of self-care, seeking support, and being gentle with ourselves in the midst of it all. Join me as we explore what it means to prioritize mental...
2024-09-2840 min
Dear Content Creator1. Why I Chose Content Creation Over Becoming a DoctorIn the very first episode of Dear Content Creator, join your host Charismaggie as she takes you on a heartfelt journey down memory lane, reflecting on why she decided to become a content creator. With 8 years of experience under her belt, Charismaggie shares candid insights into her early days of creating YouTube videos to answer questions from fellow international students. From her early academic dreams of becoming a doctor to discovering her passion for storytelling, this episode is a celebration of her evolution as a content creator and the milestones she’s achieved along the way.Tune in...
2024-09-2121 min
Dear Content CreatorDear Content Creator TrailerWelcome to Dear Content Creator—the podcast that’s all about the real, raw, and unfiltered journey of being a creator! Hosted by CharisMaggie, this is where we lift the curtain on content creation and dive into the stories you don’t always see: the long nights, the creative blocks, the wins, and everything in between. 🎥✨Whether you’re just getting started or already making waves, this podcast is your new home base. It’s not just about the tips and tricks (though we’ve got plenty of those too!)—it’s about building a community where every content creator...
2024-09-1901 min
Black Canadian CreatorsSubmerge Yourself in Culture on YouTube w/ Margarette LeandreBCANCC 04 - Video Content Creator- Scriptwriter - Producer and Director w/ Margarette LeandreIn this episode, we get to know and learn from content creator Margarette “CharisMaggie” Leandre @charismaggietv - Video Content Creator / Scriptwriter / Producer / Director - http://bit.ly/charismaggietvbcanccDiscover one of the members of #BCANCC, Margarette “CharisMaggie” Leandre. Margarette. A Guyanese-born, Jamaican and Haitian-raised YouTuber. She completed her studies in Jamaica, Belize and Canada. With a Bachelor of Science with a General Science Major and a French minor. Being an international student can be a struggle. However, through...
2019-11-0437 min