SurvAIval Insights #02_25

My mini survAIval insight of the week: Build an audience in whatever you do.

In the rapidly evolving AI era, building an audience isn’t just an option—it’s a necessity.

The days of solely relying on external platforms, publishers, or studios to define and distribute your work are decreasing. The key to survival lies in cultivating trust with a dedicated audience who values you—not just what you create.

"Consider Blue Origin versus SpaceX. Blue Origin was started two years earlier (2000 v 2002), had much better funding for most of its history, and even today employs almost as many people as SpaceX (11,000 v 13,000). Yet SpaceX has crushingly dominated Blue Origin. In 2000, Jeff Bezos had $4.7B at hand. But it is hard to see what he could’ve done to not lose out to the comparatively money-poor SpaceX with its intense culture and outlier talent." (by L Rudolf L)

Talent wanted to work with Elon Musk.

Unlike tools, your identity as a creator is rooted in your unique perspective and ability to connect with others. Defining yourself as a "content creator" reduces your work to an endless cycle of production for algorithms, chasing virality over value.

Instead, think of yourself as a storyteller, an innovator, or even a curator of ideas that resonate with your audience. Your goal isn't just to produce but to inspire, educate, and entertain in ways that AI cannot replicate—through emotional depth and human connection. The audience you build will follow you for you, not just for what you create.

The beauty of the modern landscape is that you no longer need to wait for permission. Social media, newsletters, and platforms like YouTube give you direct access to your audience.

You can use them to showcase your authenticity, share your journey, and demonstrate your value.

In this AI-driven future, those who thrive will be the ones who establish themselves as irreplaceable—by being more than tools. Build an audience that trusts you, and you'll never be replaced.