After5Chicago - Inside the Media Empire: Censorship, Commerce & Control

A Conversation on Media, Influence, Censorship, and Who Controls the Story
About this Event

A Conversation on Media, Influence, Censorship, and Who Controls the Story

Join an award-winning journalist and narrative advisor for Inside the Media Empire: Censorship, Commerce & Control, a compelling look inside the business of influence and the forces shaping how we get our news. As social media becomes one of the primary ways people discover and consume information, the lines between journalism, entertainment, advertising, and influence are becoming increasingly blurred.

This conversation will unpack how platforms shape what we see, the role of censorship and commercial interests in determining what gets amplified, and how editorial decisions can influence public understanding. We'll also look at the rise of influencers as a new kind of media power—and what happens when individuals, brands, and institutions become their own newsrooms.

What We'll Cover:

• Who controls what we see - Explore how social media platforms shape the information that reaches us and how algorithms, engagement, and platform incentives can influence what gets amplified or buried.

• Censorship & editorial interference - Examine the complicated relationship between content moderation, censorship, editorial judgment, and the forces that determine which stories get told—and which ones don't.

• When commerce shapes the news - Unpack the role of advertising, business interests, brand partnerships, and financial incentives in modern media and how commercial pressures can influence editorial decisions.

• The rise of the influencer - Explore how influencers have become powerful media companies in their own right, building audiences, shaping narratives, and often bypassing traditional journalism altogether.

• The business of influence - Take a closer look at the ecosystem connecting platforms, publishers, creators, brands, and audiences—and what it means for the future of trust and credibility in media.

Whether you're a news consumer, creator, business leader, or simply curious about who is shaping the information you see every day, you'll leave with a deeper understanding of the forces behind modern media—and a more critical eye toward the stories competing for your attention.

Don't miss this chance to connect with your After5Society.

About The Speaker:

Lyanne Alfaro is an award-winning journalist and narrative advisor who helps leaders and institutions build trust and credibility in high-stakes moments. She is the founder and CEO of Project Reliable, a communications and narrative practice informed by her experience in journalism and media. Lyanne has worked across national newsrooms and global organizations including Google and Nasdaq, where she shaped storytelling and advised companies during critical growth and IPO stages. She also founded Moneda Moves, a media platform exploring Latino economic influence in the U.S. Her work has been recognized by TIME, the New York Emmys, the Webby Awards, Digiday, and PRNews, with bylines in Forbes and CNBC. Through her work across journalism, media, and communications, Lyanne brings a unique perspective on the intersection of storytelling, business, influence, and trust.

Good to know before you come:

• Exact bar location will be disclosed in your confirmation email

• Arrive early to grab a drink and get settled

• The speaker portion lasts 1 hour, with optional time to stay and socialize afterward

• This is a participatory event

• Seating is limited to keep the experience intimate

Agenda

🕑: 06:30 PM - 07:00 PM
Doors Open & Drinks Flow

Info: Arrive early to grab a drink, settle in, and enjoy the atmosphere. Early birds get the best seats and a head start on mingling!

🕑: 07:00 PM - 08:00 PM
Guided Experience / Talk

Info: Dive into an engaging, interactive session with our speaker. Participate, observe, or simply soak it all in - it's your experience to enjoy.

🕑: 08:00 PM - 08:30 PM
Social Time & Connection

Info: Stick around to chat with fellow attendees, swap ideas, or just relax with a drink. Great conversations often happen after the main event!