Zoom has since the days of the coronavirus pandemic been known for its expertise in video. Now the company wants to demonstrate its talent for putting on a show.
Starting this week, Zoom is launching a partnership with podcaster and independent journalist Nayeema Raza, creator of the program “Smart Girl Dumb Questions,” where she seeks out seeks out leaders in business, science, and culture to respond to seemingly disarming queries. Raza on Tuesday debuts a new interview series designed for social media in which she puts a spotlight on “solopreneurs,” or people who launch their own independent operations. She will also conduct a six-part series on her own program, set to debut in August, in which she explores how technology is reshaping work and leadership. In October, Raza will participate in Zoomtopia, Zoom’s annual user conference, and bring her content to the main stage of the event.
The alliance may just be a harbinger of some of the new ways so-called “creators” work with major marketers in an era when independent editors and reporters are increasing their allure in the marketplace of ideas. According to data from Pew Research, younger adults are “especially likely” to get news from influencers. Approximately 38% of those between the ages 18 to 29 regularly do so, a figure more than four times greater than 8% of those 65 or older who do the same.
