Client versus Creator: Turning Tension into Better Influencer Work

A game-show-style finale at the ANA Creator Marketing Conference explored where brands and creators align — and how friction can foster stronger partnerships

At the 2026 ANA Creator Marketing Conference presented by Pinterest, a high-energy, game-show-style session brought brands and creators face to face to debate common assumptions in influencer marketing. Hosted by Linqia's Finola Austin, the discussion unpacked where client and creator perspectives match, where they clash, and how agencies and marketers can turn early tension into partnerships that actually work.