Local content creators speak out amid possible TikTok ban

OHIO – Growing concern over a potential TikTok ban in the United States has been a big wake-up call for some local content creators like Joey Kinsley.

“I’m on rented land like this is gone, it’s over,” Kinsley said.

With over 500,000 followers on TikTok, the Rocky River native has made a big name for himself as Sir Yacht.

“A lot of the stuff I do is focused on Ohio, Cleveland and the Midwest, but a lot of it has challenge content,” Kinsley said.

While Kinsley said he’s having fun, he’s also making a living from his TikTok videos doing random things he said most people would call crazy.

“I love doing things that are very challenging,” Kinsley said.

But if a TikTok ban is implemented, will this mean the end of Sir Yacht?

“Two years ago, if you had asked me this question, I think I would have had a different answer, I would have been a little more terrified,” he said.

However, Kinsley said it isn’t because it has found ways to diversify its brand into other social media apps, so if a ban comes, he said it will be fine.

Meanwhile, Kimberly Ochsenbein said not having TikTok would be a blow to her business, which makes unique candles with your favorite food or drink.

“It’s definitely sad because, like I said, I built my name through TikTok,” Ochsenbein said.

Ochsenbein began using the popular app to edit content for Akron Lights Candle Company.

What he said he didn’t expect to continue is this.

“I gained over 100,000 followers in just a couple of months and that’s the importance of TikTok and small businesses,” Ochsenbein said.

Now, with the possibility of a ban, she’s not sure what this will mean for her future, especially since 70% of her customers come from the app.

“In this economy, I think I would probably close my business,” Ochsenbein said.

Whether you’re a local content creator or small business owner, law experts at Case Western Reserve University said now is the time to talk to your audience so you can promote your brand on the right social media platform. if TikTok is banned.

“Look to the future, always prepare and start thinking now: what can you do to attract your customers? Then you need to do it, either on other platforms or by reaching out to them and seeing what works and what doesn’t. ”said Anat Alon-Beck, associate professor of law at CWRU.

“Even if this isn’t banned, we should let it be a wake-up call to be on rented land and diversify as much as we can,” Kinsley said.