Most Gen Z want the influencer life—well, at least some parts of it. YPulse’s 2025 Celebrities and Influencers data found 60% of 13-24-year-olds agree, “I would like to be an online celebrity.” And for many, it’s more than just a dream; they’re working on making it a reality. YPulse data also shows 33% are actively trying to become one. And though viral content might make it seem so, it’s not just young women, either. In fact, despite the stereotype that women dominate the influencer space, more young adult men than women are currently trying (47% vs. 35%). (Hello, aspiring podcasters and bro wellness creators!) But the reasoning behind that aspiration may not be what you think—or what other headlines lead you to believe. The conversation around Gen Z and influencers often claims they’re chasing fame—that they want an “easy” job where they can build a career simply by recording videos all day. Of course, it’s yet another narrative tied to stereotypes about Gen Z at work, and that they’re simply...