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When TikTok Went Dark: A 14-Hour Journey Through Social Media Chaos & What's Next
From TikTok’s wild 14-hour disappearance to must-read books, binge-worthy shows, and the launch of Pointina—your guide to navigating trends and creativity.
Hi Millies!
Welcome back -
Earlier this week, I was scrambling to put together the emergency issue of A Million Percent, encouraging you to diversify your dopamine.
If you haven’t had a chance to check out that issue, please do! It gives tons of recommendations for every reason why we use TikTok and where to get that fix filled outside of TikTok.
With everything that has happened with TikTok in the past week, we can start to feel a collective shift away from the platform and it’s important to not be left behind.
The TikTok Ban That Basically Never Was
The 14-hour ban had everyone collectively saying, “WTF?” The app is still unavailable to download in the App Store but it has been returned to millions of user’s phones in the United States.
One unexpected highlight was the influencer trend using a Family Guy soundbite:
"Since we’re all going to die, there’s one more secret I have to share with you: I did not care for The Godfather.”
Influencers spilled their secrets like never before. Some admitted to using Ozempic, while others revealed their platforms were built on illusions. When TikTok returned less than 14 hours later, they were backpedaling and questioning why they had revealed some of their biggest secrets.
@sentmedowntownlights some of these had my jaw on the FLOOR. wdym it was all a lie??? 😭 #influencers #influencerconfessions #tiktokban #january19tiktokban #sinc... See more
The Emotional Toll
This week has felt like a month in social media. It feels like the general shift of TikTok has shifted. The “goodbye” videos were heavy—people were crying, saying farewell and the overall vibe was just… off. Then came the unexpected messages from TikTok, giving credit to Donald J. Trump for the app’s brief disappearance and return. Cue the conspiracy theories.
What Changed?
Creators are noticing a shift. Anti-Trump rhetoric seems harder to find, and news like the California fires and the Dior Bag Drones trend is mysteriously absent. Hank Green even posted about the need for better media literacy. If someone as media-savvy as Hank is concerned, it’s definitely a moment to pause and reflect.
What a Time to Be Alive
All I can think is, wow—what a moment in history. Social media is evolving right before our eyes, and we’re right in the middle of it.
Now, I want to hear from you. How did all the TikTok drama affect you personally? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
DIVERSIFY YOUR DOPAMINE
Here are a few of my favorite things from this week:
Traitors on Peacock
This Emmy-winning show hosted by Allen Cumming has everything you want from a binge-worthy series. Traitors combines intense competition with a star-studded cast of your favorite reality TV icons. Now in its third season, the drama is at an all-time high with some of the most recognizable players yet. We’ve been so hooked we even went back to binge the second season. Add this one to your watchlist!
Secrets of a Millionaire Mind
This book is a game-changer. As I focus on personal finances in 2025, Secrets of the Millionaire’s Mind has completely transformed how I think about money. Perfect for those who love practical advice with a touch of woo-woo, this book combines actionable tips with empowering declarations that rewire your mindset.

Each chapter includes a declaration, you place your hand on your heart and repeat things like
“I think big! I choose to help millions and millions of people”
“I focus on opportunities over obstacles. I get ready, fire and I aim high”
Then you place your finger on your head and say
“I have a millionaire mind!”
By connecting with your body while you say these affirmations, the energy of your words vibrates throughout your body and it sends a powerful message to your subconscious mind. I’ve noticed a difference in how I think and act in the week that I’ve been reading the book. This book is a must-read if you're on the road to becoming a millionaire.
How’s Work? Writing Workshop
The 2-hour workshop, led by Sarah Allen-Short, came highly recommended by the Old Girls Club and I’m so glad that I joined. Sarah does an amazing job of making a really safe container and only giving strengths focused feedback. I felt confident sharing and left feeling really connected to the people in my group.
These free workshops happen almost weekly and are an incredible resource for solo founders looking to work through professional challenges. I left feeling empowered and inspired—and it was an amazing way to spend an afternoon of self reflection.
Pointina: Where Creativity Meets Community
Meredith and I are thrilled to introduce Pointina! We’re on a mission to get more creatives into needlepoint. Whether you’re a total beginner or an experienced stitcher, we believe this heritage craft is a powerful way for brands to connect with their communities.
Why needlepoint? The numbers speak for themselves:
Needlepoint.com has reported a 47% increase in revenue over the past three months.
Millennials and Gen Z now make up 34% of the dedicated stitching community.
The craft is booming, and Pointina is here to serve this growing audience.
We’re actively seeking brands to collaborate with on custom activations that bring needlepoint to life!
Know someone who might be interested?
Please forward this email or reply to connect us.
That’s it for now! I’m on a flight escaping the cold down to South Florida for the weekend.
As always, I’d really appreciate if you please forward this email to someone you think would enjoy it 💖
xoxo,
Elizabeth
P.S. Respond to this email with any feedback you have for me over the last few issues! I’d love to hear from you
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