How Cannes Lions Shook Me...
How Cannes Lions Shook Me...
Ever since I started Idalia INC almost a decade ago, I’ve begun to see the world through a particular lens, where every conversation is an insight. Every brand campaign I’m in charge of is a case study. Every moment is data to help build a more profitable future for my clients and students.
So when META invited Chriselle Lim (whom I manage), to speak at a panel in Cannes Lions and my invitation followed, I knew it would be more than just a glamorous industry event. It was a pulse check on where creativity is headed and boy-oh-boy do I have the goods for you.
For context, I’ve attended the Cannes Film Festival twice in my life, but this was my first time at Cannes Lions. Yes, both are in Cannes France, but whereas the Cannes Film Festival celebrates film, Cannes Lions celebrates marketing and advertising.
Cannes Lions is one of those rare and unique places where high-level marketing conversations + pop culture moments merge and thrive. Like I’d be walking along the Croisette (the main street in Cannes), grabbing coffee next to CMOs of global brands, listening to panels about AI ethics, then ending the night in conversations about what storytelling means in this new social media era.
I can confidently say that there was one common thread: the power of owning your voice, your platform, and your narrative.
Watching Chriselle, Patrick Ta, and Katie Fang, speak on stage with META was one of those case study moments. The panel was moderated by none other thank Kristie Dash!
From my seat, it wasn’t lost on me how the role of the manager, strategist, and operator behind-the-scenes is evolving, too. My role in this industry has gone beyond building decks or negotiating deals… it’s really about becoming into an architect of the creator ecosystem. Being at Cannes reminded me that the best strategy isn’t just about visibility, it’s about vision. It’s about knowing how to build something that can last, shift culture, and still sell.
META’s programming especially reinforced that we’re at an inflection point. Creators aren’t just collaborators (yeah, say buh-bye to that notion). Creators are really core to how brands are built…. yeah, let that sink in.
The platforms are responding with real investment, better tools, and, most importantly, a seat at the table. For me, this was affirmation. The work I do helping clients develop long-term brand strategy (work that I do quietly and not show on social media) is exactly what this new landscape demands.
One of the most personal takeaways I brought home from Cannes is that there’s real power in showing up. I’m talking sidebar conversations, small dinners, the informal chats… don’t be mistaken that those are the place the future of the creator industry being shaped. Not in sweeping declarations or loud and sparkly IG posts… no. But in real talk…. anything from burnout to equity to ownership to leading without losing yourself.
If you’re a creator really ready to level up your game and truly make it a remarkable business, I really encourage you to join me in July for my 12-week lab “The Creator Catalyzer.” This is my baby… gathering my 21+ years of experience in this industry, and now infusing it with that much more knowledge with the insider insights I learned on this trip.
Because you’re part of my SubStack fam, you’ll get a FREE discovery call by clicking here.
You guys, please don’t hesitate. Doors close July 14th and don’t want you to miss out.
XX Idalia