Control the Narrative: Lessons from Shedeur, Instagram, and Zendaya
Three moments this week show why the loudest voice shouldn’t be the one telling your story.
In 2025, opportunities are everywhere — but so are landmines. Whether you’re talking to the press, posting on Instagram, or partnering with a global brand, the smallest choice can shape how you’re seen and remembered. This week, we’re breaking down a few moments from sports, social media, and style that prove one thing: success isn’t just about what you do, it’s about how you show up.
🎯 Shedeur Sanders: Mastering the Media Moment
At Browns training camp, Shedeur Sanders has been as consistent off the field as he’s been on it. Surprisingly, he’s starting tonight in the preseason opener, even after being announced as the 4th quarterback on the team’s depth chart. When asked about his minimal reps with the first team and other potential challenges, he’s kept the main thing the main thing - talking about the work, the process, and his gratitude for the opportunity.
Even when reporters have teed up questions that could produce a juicy headline, he’s avoided taking the bait. That’s media discipline. That’s brand protection.
Why it matters for athletes & creatives:
Reporters—whether in sports, music, or business—are trained to get a compelling story. Sometimes that means they’ll ask questions designed to stir controversy. Your job isn’t to give them drama—it’s to give them clarity on who you are and what you stand for.
3 quick takeaways:
Identify your “safe zone” topics before any interview (what you want to highlight no matter the question).
Bridge back to your key points when questions go sideways.
Remember: tone travels—your delivery is as important as your words.
📲 Instagram’s Latest Updates: What You Need to Know
Instagram just rolled out new changes to how content is surfaced and prioritized.
While the specifics are constantly evolving, the big picture is this: platforms will always reward the type of content they want more of.
If Instagram is boosting certain formats—like Reels, carousel posts, or engagement-heavy stories—those are the formats you should lean into if growth is your goal.
Why it matters:
You can’t treat every platform the same. The athletes, creatives, and brands winning right now are the ones tailoring content to each app’s unique “algorithm personality.”
3 quick takeaways:
Audit your posts—see which formats Instagram is currently boosting and adjust accordingly.
Build for engagement, not just reach—comments and shares often carry more weight than views.
Test and adapt monthly—platform priorities can shift overnight.
👟 Zendaya x On Running: The Power of Perfect Alignment
Zendaya’s partnership with On Running isn’t just a celebrity deal—it’s a case study in brand alignment. Known for her style, grace, and global influence, Zendaya brings On an audience they haven’t fully captured: fashion-conscious consumers who value both performance and aesthetics.
This isn’t just about sneakers. It’s about storytelling and intersecting sport with fashion. Zendaya’s work with stylist Law Roach ensures every campaign moment feels intentional, aspirational, and authentic.
Why it matters for athletes & creatives:
The right brand partnership isn’t just a check—it’s an extension of your identity. When you choose collaborations that align with your values and image, the marketing feels natural, and the audience leans in.
3 quick takeaways:
Ask: Does this brand reflect my personal values?
Consider your audience overlap—will this deal introduce you to new, aligned fans?
Think beyond the product—is there a bigger story to tell?
Final Thought:
Whether you’re in a press conference, on a social feed, or in a global ad campaign, your voice is your most valuable asset. Protect it. Shape it. Use it to lead the conversation—not just react to it.
I’m going to my first live soccer match ever tonight. I’ll see you next week with a look at that experience plus my thoughts on the double standard in sports investment, especially when it comes to media deals.