This Is the One Thing You’re Overlooking When You File Your Taxes Online

What is influencing?

If you hang out anywhere on the internet, especially on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, you are no stranger to influencing. By definition, to influence is to do just that – “have an influence on,” but the word has taken on a whole new meaning in the modern age. It’s essentially a new marketing technique that employs social media creators to promote certain products and services.

We’ve all seen the classic examples of internet influencing on our daily scrolls. It’s a cute gal showing you her favorite beauty products through a nicely cut video, or tapping a quick outfit check story. It’s perfectly polished ‘get ready with me’ vlogs and ‘dupe’ videos. These appealing posts are typically marked with a “paid promotion” disclaimer alongside the content. The content of the posts or the person showing them off just makes you want to buy something – and boom, you’re influenced!

@ashlynnrudzinski don’t mind the bone in the back lol #fashiontiktok♬ original sound - Tik Toker

Though internet influencing can benefit not only the companies employing the strategy, but also the influencers themselves, more and more consumers are catching on to the idea that it’s not really a great model for promotion and consumption.

Influencing has become overdone – it fuels overconsumption and shopping addictions, makes the consumer feel empty and left out by determining trends, and oftentimes encourages unsustainable practices in a time where we should be interested in the opposite.

The Case for De-Influencing

For me, the term ‘de-influencing’ started popping up on the same platform that its counterpart did: TikTok. I normally get a lot of consumer-forward content on my For You Page, whether it’s makeup, gym outfit recommendations, or new food products that I need to know about. Whether the person on my screen is a paid influencer or not, the app and community surrounding it makes me feel like I need whatever they’re putting on display. So yes, influencing does work.

De-influencing aims to combat that insatiable need and craving for material things that are typically encouraged by internet influencers and trends. Users are coming out and realizing that you don't need twelve mascaras, you don't need fifteen different colors of the same tank top. Essentially, de-influencing is the rejection of influencer culture, which consumers have just had enough of. It feels like an extremely brave declaration, especially in our American society that constantly promotes wanting more.

@ramenasaidwow#stitch with @eliseeatsplants #makeup#skincare♬ original sound - Ramena

What is de-influencing? 

All of this is not to say that buying things that make you happy is bad. It’s okay to want certain things when they’ll bring you happiness in a time when you feel down. One small purchase here and there for the sake of your own sanity is a habit I know very well, and it's okay to feel tired, depressed and on the hunt for more in our society. One of the main motivations behind de-influencing is getting you, the consumer, to rethink your consumption habits, and reject the desire to be ‘on trend.’

Will the latest and greatest really make you feel more valued in society? Rock what you really think is cool. Rock a sustainable, small brand. Repurpose and donate your clothing. Some things you just don't need to enhance your life, though it feels like every force is working against you, especially internet influencers. There is beauty in appreciating what you already have, instead of endlessly searching for something that likely won’t fulfill you.

@basicofcourse people that are against fun little drunk purchasing are misogynists I won’t be elaborating #excessconsumption#deinfluencing#intentionalshopping#intentionalliving#funlittledrink#sustainability♬ original sound - allison

The Impact of Influencers and Consumer Culture

Trends make consumers feel left out, or obligated to participate.

TikTok is a vast breeding ground for the newest trends in beauty and fashion – this realm is where I see the most influence pushed. Though trends can be fun, the internet seems to have a new trend every other day, and keeping up with them is unrealistic. When consumers look toward creators with large internet followings for trends, especially creators who actively promote and influence trends, the idea that they need certain things to stay in the loop gets deeply rooted.

Take last year’s Ugg Mini surge for example. The low-rise boot was pretty much everywhere I went (and scrolled). It was all the rage, and cozy outfits didn't seem complete without them. “This is your sign to get the Ugg Minis,” one creator preached. “You need these boots in your life,” another said. And this went on and on. It felt like everyone had the shoes, and I definitely contemplated grabbing myself a pair, cycling between adding them to my cart and taking them out a few days later. They’re expensive, I told myself, but I would be dressing like that one cool influencer. It sounds shallow, but it was hard not to feel like I was part of a trend – something bigger than myself – and I know others that feel the same way.

@sadgrlswag De-influencing you, no more over consumption or else 💣💥! 😡😤 #GenshinImpact34♬ original sound - Estef

@overcoming_overspending What else am I missing? Things that social media convinced us are normal but aren’t. #overconsumption#impulsebuying#implusebuyer#deinfluencing#spendingproblems#creditcarddebt#overspendingmoney#overspender#influencedbytiktok#influenced♬ original sound - Paige | Spending Coach

Influencer culture promotes unrealistic expectations for consumption.

The urge to be part of trends encourages overconsumption and shopping addictions. When we’re getting bombarded with marketing messages every day via influencers, we want something different and new every day.

TikTok’s search bar as well as Instagram’s shopping tab make it so easy to fall into a rabbit hole of capitalistic consumption: a plethora of cool-looking internet personalities promoting countless clothing items and life hack tools, makeup hauls, and it definitely goes on. After a while, staying on-trend becomes financially unrealistic. When all we see influencers post are insane PR hauls and new products every day, we want what they have, but we forget that they’re just like us – they have bills to pay, and lives to live. Like I say all the time, social media is a highlight reel. Plus, this is the influencer’s job, to post and influence you.

This element of need that’s embedded in influencer culture is quite contradictory to our generation’s pleads for sustainable practices. While we face a real climate crisis that’s fueled by production and shipping, it seems like the right thing to do to change our consumption habits to be more sustainable – but a lot of younger consumers don't really know how to practice what they preach. It’s easy to get sucked into the internet and do what it tells them to. It’s hard to not want what makes others look cool.

Big influencers often recommend fast-fashion giants like Shein to their audiences, without either stakeholder realizing the impacts of the industry. Fast fashion production contributes about 8-10% of the world’s carbon emissions, and 20% of global industrial water pollution. Not only does production itself impact the environment, but shipping goods also contributes to global carbon emissions, about 3%. Though companies are setting measurable goals to improve waste and emissions by 2050, it’s not just on them to change their habits. You can change your consumption habits at an individual level:

How To Be a More Conscious Consumer

• Think critically about your need for the item(s).
• Evaluate if the internet is just trying to sell you something.
• Research the company that’s selling the product for their mission on sustainability and practices.
• Evaluate your need for the item(s).
  • Do you already have something that serves the same purpose?
  • Could you see yourself using it every day?
  • Is it worth what you’d be paying for it?
• Try waiting a day or two before buying in order to reconsider the purchase. If it's still on your mind, then think about if it fills a necessity.

Women in Finance with Andrea Radulescu

You don't want to take money advice from just anyone. It's extremely important that they have the right credibility to back up what they're saying. The Women in Finance podcast is led by female professionals in the finance industry who know exactly what they're talking about. They share advice and insights from their career that help you feel more confident in your finances.

Her Money with Jean Chatzky

Hilarious, heartfelt and deeply interesting, this cool women-focused financial podcast should definitely be on your commuting playlist. Tackling everything from investing to retirement funds, it's a practical guide that isn't a struggle to listen to.

So Money with Farnoosh Torabi

Named a Best Podcast by The New York Times, So Money with Farnoosh Torabi provides listeners with candid conversations about money. Torabi covers everything from budgeting and saving to how to invest and retire. She is an award-winning financial strategist, allowing listeners to feel confident in knowing that they are getting sound advice.

Brown Ambition with Mandi and Tiffany

Far too often women of color are left out of the all-too-important conversation around personal finance. Mandi and Tiffany, the hosts of Brown Ambition, have created a space at the table to have these conversations and provide meaningful advice on topics like budgeting, investing, and career development. Their suggestions never feel judgmental, which is something that some money podcasts veer into, allowing listeners to feel supported.

Afford Anything with Paula Pant

If your money goals include complete financial independence, Afford Anything is the podcast for you. It is centered around the idea that, yes, you can afford anything, but you can't afford everything. The host, Paula Pant, interviews people who have had success with their money and points out what you can learn and implement into your own life.

Women & Money

Hosted by financial advisor, Suze Orman, Women & Money features engaging and informational interviews with successful women. I love this podcast because it really does have a "no gatekeeping" policy, as powerful women come on and are more than happy to share their tips and strategies on all things money management and investment.

Clever Girls Know!

Created by Clever Girl Finance, a leading personal finance platform, this podcast is designed to help women learn about their finances and build wealth independently. Hosts Bola Sokunbi and Kara Perez are extremely knowledgable and touch upon a number of important subjects, including budgeting and investing. The best part is the podcast feels fast-paced, engaging, and fun which allows for you to learn while enjoying yourself.

Money Girl

Savings and spreadsheets aren't really the most exhilarating subjects, which is why this to-the-point podcast is perfect for a daily dose of financial wisdom. The host, Laura, Adams, takes listeners through credit, taxes, retirement,and insurance to help us all make better and smarter decisions!

The Fairer Cents 

If the pay gap is something that makes your blood boil (as it should), you'll want to listen to Fairer Cents. The podcast dives into actionable ways to challenge the status quo and get ahead when it comes to money in a male-dominated world.

Yo Quiero Dinero with Janesse Torrez-Rodriguez

Like the title suggests, don't we all want to make money? This podcast is hosted by Jannese Torres who walks listeners through her journey of being fired and turning it into financial freedom. Her story and the advice she provides are inspirational and will have you feeling confident you can take your dinero to the next level.

Financial Feminist 

If you're looking to fully take control of your finances and work to achieve your goals and beyond, it's time to give Financial Feminist a listen. The show covers topics like budgeting, investing, and saving in a way that feels both relatable and empowering.

Side Hustle Pro with Nacaila Matthews Okome

For those looking to pick up something on the side to make some extra cash, Side Hustle Pro walks you through just how to do it. The host, Nicaila Matthews Okome, interviews successful Black women entrepreneurs who have been able to take their side hustles to profitable businesses that support them and their families.

The Money Nerds With Whitney Hansen

The Money Nerds provides relatable stories that make you feel a little less alone in your financial woes. The podcast covers things like debt, savings, and how to just stress less about whats in your pocket.

The Financial Confessions

For some reason, there can be a lot of shame surrounding financial journeys and the inevitable struggles that come along the way. The Financial Confessions podcast works to destigmatize money conversations and talks about everything involving earning, spending, and losing money. It is hosted by the CEO of The Financial Diet, Chelsea Fagan, so you know you're getting quality advice.

Catch Up On The Last 10 Years Of "Vanderpump Rules"

On December 12 at 10:15pm, you can stream Vanderpump Rules: A Decade of Rumors and Lies, a special hosted by Lisa Vanderpump herself. The special is a retrospective of the last 10 years of VPR, giving us the most important highlights to catch up on before the new season airs.

What has the Vanderpump Rules cast been up to since season 10?

Bravocon Brought All The Drama

TBH, nothing good tends to happen when the Vanderpump Rules cast comes to Las Vegas, and Bravocon was no exception this year! To address the Scandoval in the room, Tom was allegedly rude to Ariana right off the bat. Ariana told E! News that Tom called her a "stank face" and that she doesn't anticipate he'll apologize any time soon.

Luckily, if anyone was worried about Lala Kent and Ariana's friendship, they're all good! There was speculation about Lala's friendship with Tom and whether or not that would get between the two women, but Lala told Page Six that there's no beef.

On the other side of the "Good As Gold" coin, Scheana Shay apparently went to Tom's room just to defend Ariana. She basically told Page Six that she was over Tom talking about the scandal, and that he should "let her heal and just stop." The girls are girling!!!!!

And speaking of "girls girling," when a fan asked if Katie Maloney would ever consider "dipping her toes in the lady pond." Scheana responded with, "...Season 11," and Katie CO-SIGNED the response! We can't wait to see what Tequila Katie gets up to on VPR S11!

Charli Burnett Got Engaged

Charli Burnett, originally introduced to the cast in season 8, announced on Instagram that she's officially engaged to Corey Loftus. While she's allegedly not returning to Vanderpump Rules season 11, we're still so excited to see Charli so happy and in love! Congrats to the happy couple!

Tom Doesn't Understand Why His Affair Was "Such A Big Deal".

Are you rolling your eyes with me? During a sneak peek of the show Sandoval is currently doing called Special Forces: World's Toughest Test, he revealed that he was surprised by how much backlash he got. When asked by a fellow competitor about why he thought it was a big deal, Sandoval replied "I honestly don't know. I'm a f--cking stupid reality star. Like, come on man."

Ariana Madix Refuses To Speak To Tom Sandoval

Iconicness begets future iconicness. Thus far, it appears that Ariana Madix is keeping a calculated distance between her and Tom Sandoval. The former couple have filmed most of their scenes apart — though they were spotted at the same event in late July and mid-August. According to TMZ, Ariana is "just not interested in talking to the guy." 10/10.

Ariana Is Moving On With Someone New

In her first relationship since her break up with Tom in March 2023, Ariana has shared that she feels incredibly supported. Talking to US Weekly, she said that her new boyfriend, Daniel Wai, "sacrifices his sleep and time to help me with anything I need, and then he takes a red-eye back and goes straight to work. He'll clean up things that are left out and does little things you don't really think about."

I love that for you, Ariana. Viewers will know that Ariana shared during her relationship with Tom that she's not looking to get married. And, despite how sweet Daniel is, she is not sure if her stance on marriage has changed.

Rachel Leviss Has Been Getting Her Girl Boss On

Rachel's motto right now seems to be "don't get mad, get even", as she sells off her memories of Tom Sandoval. She has listed some pieces associated with him on eBay, including a necklace and sweatshirts. Her lightening bolt necklace, for example, sold for $5,300 after passionate fans battled it out for this piece of reality TV memorabilia.

She even threw a little shade in the description of the product on eBay, saying that the necklace was "symbolic of my devotion to another person who I allowed to have power over me. He no longer does." Rachel has said that the money from these sales will be donated to the National Alliance of Mental Illness.

Meanwhile, Schwartz Seems To Be Going Through It

By which we mean a fan posted a photo with him and it appears as though he's bleached his hair. And we mean bleached his hair. The way only male high school athletes and men in midlife crises do.

Fortunately, two hair stylists (one of which being his suspected girlfriend Jo) took pity on him and doused his hair in toner, revealing a shade of platinum blonde that is only comparable to P!NK circa 2002.

PuppyGate 2.0 Is In Our Midst

PuppyGate has made its way from The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills to WeHo. This time the pup in question is Rachel and James's dog Graham, who allegedly ended up in a shelter after biting Rachel's mom (Note: Rachel claims he was sent to a rehabilitation center). Either way, Vanderpump Dog Foundation got tipped off about the surrender and reunited Graham with James, who has since changed Graham's name to Hippie.

There's Been Drama Over The Cast Hanging With Sandoval

Most of the VPR cast made it extremely clear they are Team Ariana during last season's reunion, so fans were surprised to find out that everyone has been hanging out with the publicly-convicted Scandoval-ridden Tom. Lala Kent and Scheana Shay, though, were quick to defend themselves.

“It, like, still blows my mind that people don’t realize we’re filming a show," Lala said on IG, noting that a group photo featuring Tom was for a fan: “What are we gonna be like, ‘No, absolutely not.’ Like, no, ‘Happy birthday, let’s take a f*cking picture.’ It’s called adulting.”

Meanwhile, Scheana added, “We’re in a group. We’re all here. We hopped in a photo. You know what? I happened to be standing where I was standing. I take photos with strangers every f*cking day. That’s how you take a photo. I stand like that. I smile. I tilt my head to my good side."

When Will “Vanderpump Rules” Season 11 Air?

S10 didn't hit the big screen until February 2023, but it seems like Bravo may give us our VPR fix a tad earlier. In July, Executive Producer Alex Baskin told The Hollywood Reporter, "In six months, we’ll drop a new season. It’s good to make the audience miss you a little bit."

And now, we've got an official announcement from Bravocon that the show will air in January, 2024! This was followed by this 30 second first look, showing how all the drama from Scandoval spilled over into the new season. Currently sitting on pins and needles, waiting for any and all teaser trailers and promo material! YAY!

Who's returning for season 11 of Vanderpump Rules?

Ariana Madix, Katie Maloney, Tom Schwartz, Scheana Shay, Lala Kent, Tom Sandoval and James Kennedy, along with their respected partners, are all currently filming S11. Former VPR cast members Jax Taylor, Brittany Cartwright, and Kristen Doute are rumored to be filming, but that remains unsubstantiated.

Is Rachel Leviss coming back?

Rachel (formerly known as Raquel) completed her mental health treatment following her role in what can only be described as the affair of the century (at least in the Bravoverse). While she was believed to be in negotiations with Bravo, she is no longer returning to the franchise.

When did the new season of Vanderpump Rules start filming?

At least according to TMZ, the new season started filming on June 28. The media outlet also reported that as of July 28, the show was "halfway through" filming, presumably meaning that they will wrap filming by the end of August or early September. So far, the cast has been seen hanging at various bars and restaurants, and Tom was spotted crying.