One effective formula for creators is to participate in ongoing trends like “Things about me that will make you unfollow… or follow immediately.” And for the last few years, one of these trends has been to write lists of what’s In and Out, especially at the start of a new year. I enjoy reading these, seeing where my personal Ins and Outs align.

There was a line in Rachel Janfaza’s list of Ins that stood out:

For everyone across the political spectrum, the current news cycle is relentless. But two things can be true: Being overwhelmed and hurt by everything going on is completely valid, and you can be eager to do something about it beyond Instagram reshares.

Creators excel at the “next steps” part of the equation, whether that’s encouraging their audience to call their congressional representatives or organizing a feminine products drive for a local nonprofit. They recognize that being informed is important, but a big part of serving a community is helping them process the information and figure out what they want to do about it.

A few examples:

Creators have extended their online communities into IRL spaces, too. 2025 NCC fellow Becky Bullard hosted a nonpartisan event to provide resources and information to help participants confidently choose their preferred candidate in the TX primary elections.

Tuning out and shutting down stem from helplessness, and when we can help our communities funnel their passion into an action, we become even more valuable to them. Optimism, earnestness, and care are no longer cringe. Or better said, as Run For Something co-founder & president Amanda Litman posted: “The future of democracy depends on millennial cringe.”

Need something to feel less helpless today? Invest in those who do this really well by donating to News Creator Corps. Even $5 moves the needle, allowing us to support more creators who are bolstering their communities through information, kindness, and care.

Let’s look at some of the ways creators have adapted the inverted pyramid utilizing the communication skills of distribution platforms in 2026.