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Dear Cultivators.
Last Tuesday, I hosted my Monetize Yourself event…
But I ran into some tech issues on YouTube for the first live event I was hosting for Siembra Connect… even after a few tests earlier that day, and it was definitely not how I envisioned the session.
But here’s the thing: I didn’t let it stop me.
I pivoted mid-session, stayed focused on delivering value, and kept the conversation moving by going audio only.
What made the difference wasn’t just the information I shared — it was the trust I’ve built over the years by showing up, building community, and being consistent with my brand.
Because of that foundation, people stayed, engaged, and to my surprise, I was able to book some 1:1 sessions for my Deep Dive offer.
It’s a reminder: the work you put in over time is what carries you through when things don't go as planned.
Progress over perfection always wins.
(this has been my theme since I started this newsletter)
Enjoy today’s issue… I have so much to share, I want you to meet Candy Calderon, find out why I ditched Calendly for Book Like a Boss, get the scoop about the new Instagram Edits, and how to learn from a major brand’s run in with the FTC for not dsclosing partnerships. Last but not least… I introduce you to Silence The Shame to add to your list of Mental Health Resources.
Let’s Grow!
If you read this newsletter “I kindly request that from this point forward, all creators refrain from hustling backwards, chasing clout, or undervaluing their worth.” and be ready to learn from real world experience… I been at this for a minute.
Creator Spotlight showcases a standout creative who is making waves in their industry. Learn about their journey, projects, and insights, and get inspired by how they’re building their brand and impact.
Candy Calderón: Wellness Entrepreneur, Speaker, and Founder
The last few weeks, I have been focused on monetization, I wanted to introduce you to an enterprising voice that has figured out all the things… This is a young lady whose journey I have followed for many years.
Candy Calderón is a dynamic entrepreneur who has built a thriving career by turning her expertise in holistic health and wellness into successful businesses. After earning degrees in business and working in international corporate roles, Candy shifted paths when personal experiences with her family's health challenges ignited her passion for preventative wellness.
Today, she is the founder of the CEO Wellness Club, where she helps professionals optimize brain health, sleep, and performance. Candy has mastered the art of monetizing her knowledge through coaching programs, corporate workshops, branded partnerships, and a growing media footprint.
Her work has been featured by Forbes, NBC Latino, and the American Heart Association, positioning her as a leading voice in health equity and entrepreneurial wellness. Through her businesses, speaking engagements, and digital community, Candy has proven that purpose-driven expertise, when paired with strategy, can create real impact — and real revenue.
Here are Candy Calderón's official social media profiles:
Instagram: @candycalderon_
Facebook: Candy Calderon
Twitter (X): @candycalderon_
LinkedIn: Candy Calderón
YouTube: Candy Calderon
Connect with her today!
Most of our features come from creators I come across on my timeline daily—but I know YOU are connected to some amazing talent I may not have discovered yet. That’s why I’m opening up the floor…
Are you or do you know a creator who deserves to be featured?
We’re looking for creators, entrepreneurs, and artists who are making waves and have a story to tell. Whether you’re building a brand, leading a movement, or creating game-changing content, we want to highlight your journey!
📩 Send your submissions to [email protected]
My Creator Toolkit is your go-to resource for the best apps, platforms, and strategies to streamline your workflow and level up your content game. From AI tools to social media hacks, this section equips you with everything you need to create smarter, not harder.
I remember when Calendly felt like the perfect solution.
Simple, easy, clean.
But over time, my business outgrew it.
I needed more than just a basic scheduling page.
I needed a full experience — something that could sell my services, show off my brand, and make my clients feel confident about booking with me.
That’s when I found Book Like a Boss.
It was that moment when you realize you don’t just need an appointment...
You need a powerhouse.
Book Like a Boss wasn’t just another "booking form" — it gave me everything I had been trying to piece together on my own:
Beautiful branded landing pages
The ability to sell products, memberships, and services
Video and photo galleries to showcase my work
Built-in testimonials to build instant trust
Options to accept tips, donations, or even “pay what you want”
Full control over approvals, offline payments, coupon codes — everything
It connected seamlessly with my Google Calendar, my Zoom account, and it was easy to navigate even when I was just getting started.
There was no comparison.
While everyone else was still stuck trying to make Calendly work for their growing businesses, switching to Book Like a Boss felt like upgrading from a folding chair to a first-class seat.
Now, my booking page isn’t just a form — it’s part of my brand experience.
And the best part?
No credit card. No stress. Just love and support from a team that actually wants you to win.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products and services I trust and believe will add value to you.
Also… I only promote apps /services that I use in building my business.
In the News keeps you updated on the latest trends, headlines, and industry shifts affecting creators and entrepreneurs. From platform updates to funding opportunities, this section highlights what’s happening now and why it matters to you.
Growth Opportunities is where you’ll find grants, brand deals, job openings, and other ways to expand your reach and income. Whether you're looking for funding, collaborations, or new platforms to showcase your work, this section helps you tap into opportunities that move your creator journey forward.
MONETIZATION: A MINI SIEMBRA LESSON
WHAT:
Monetization is the process of turning your skills, content, or community into consistent income. It’s about intentionally creating pathways where people can pay for the value you already offer.
WHY:
Visibility alone is not enough.
If you’re not monetizing, you’re building someone else’s empire — not yours.
Monetization allows you to sustain your work, invest in your growth, and build the life you want.
WHEN:
The best time to start thinking about monetization is as soon as people start paying attention. You don’t need a huge audience — you need a clear offer and a system that matches your stage of growth.
HOW:
In my Deep Dive Sessions, I guide you through my signature Audit, Align, Amplify framework to find the best monetization paths for your brand today — and build a plan for your next level.
Siembra Lessons is where we break down key takeaways from the creator journey—hard-earned wisdom, business insights, and real-life strategies to help you grow. Whether it’s a personal story, a case study, or a lesson learned the hard way, this section is all about planting seeds of knowledge so you can cultivate success.
The Revolve lawsuit is a sharp reminder that disclosure in influencer marketing is not optional — it’s the law.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has long made it clear: if you are paid, gifted, or have any material connection to a brand, you must disclose it in a way that is "clear and hard to miss."
In this case, Revolve allegedly encouraged influencers to blur those lines by tagging the brand without using proper disclosures like #ad or “paid partnership.”
The result? Over a million consumers potentially made buying decisions based on endorsements they believed were authentic, not sponsored.
Transparency matters because trust is the foundation of influence.
When creators and brands hide relationships, they don’t just risk lawsuits — they damage their credibility with their audiences.
This lawsuit sends an important message to brands and creators alike:
Always be upfront.
Always disclose clearly.
Always respect your audience.
Because the moment you lose their trust, you lose everything.
If you work with brands, take a moment to read the FTC’s guidelines — and protect your reputation the right way.
Upcoming Events highlights must-attend conferences, workshops, and networking opportunities for creators and entrepreneurs. Whether virtual or in-person, these events are designed to help you learn, connect, and grow your brand.
Conference Date: April 22 - 24, 2025
Event Location: Virtual
Cost: $349 – $749 USD
The only event for public safety professionals and first responders. Presented as part of the Social Media Strategies Summit.
Conference Date: April 25, 2025
Event Location: Toronto, Ontario
Cost: $399+ CAD
Another SocialNext event, this time a one-day event in Toronto. This conference is essential for brands, agencies, and marketers seeking to enhance their digital strategies. The event offers opportunities to connect with top marketers and brands, featuring speakers and various sessions and panels. And - we’ll see you there!
Conference Date: April 28 - 30, 2025
Event Location: Miami Beach, Florida
Cost: $899 - $5,999 USD
POSSIBLE brings together key decision-makers, from rising stars to C-Suites for an inspiring 3-days of learning and networking. Our unique settings allow for interactive sessions and exclusive meetups in diverse, immersive spaces that foster meaningful connections and creative collaborations among industry leaders and innovators.
Conference date: May 8, 2025
Event Location: Toronto, Ontario
Cost: TBD
Yes, it’s true! We’re holding our first IRL community event. Expect actionable community-building strategies, real-world case studies from seasoned experts, and the chance to connect with fellow HeyOrca community members. Don’t miss it!
Mental Health Resources is your space for tools, tips, and support to help you navigate the ups and downs of the creator journey. From managing burnout to setting boundaries, this section provides practical strategies to protect your well-being while building your brand.
Silence the Shame, Inc. is dedicated to revolutionizing mental health in vulnerable communities. Our holistic approach addresses the root causes of mental health stigma, reduces suicide rates, and improves overall health outcomes. We believe in treating mental health as a spectrum, focusing on wellness, prevention, and recovery in addition to illness.
By recognizing the connection between mental and physical well-being, we strive to eliminate barriers to care and advocate for better environmental conditions. Through innovative programs promoting health literacy, equity, positive youth development, and self-care, we are creating a culture of support and healing. Join us in our mission to transform mental health care and make a lasting impact on underserved communities.
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