Jaclyn Johnson Turns Gersh’s Deal into a Content‑Empire Playbook

Gersh has signed Jaclyn Johnson, a business, investment and culture content creator. The move expands the agency’s roster of creators who blend entrepreneurial insight with digital presence.

Johnson launched Create & Cultivate in 2011 as a retreat for 25 female founders in Palm Springs, turning it into a global media and events platform. Since then the brand has grown to more than two million worldwide, with over 550,000 newsletter subscribers and company revenues that hit $14 million in 2019.

In a notable transaction, Johnson sold Create & Cultivate for $22 million to a private‑equity firm, only to partner with the new CEO, Marina Middleton, and buy it back for a six‑figure amount eighteen months later.

The company has raised $2.6 million in venture capital and now focuses on events that offer access to industry experts and technology‑driven programming.

## Background & Context

Johnson serves as Chief Creative Officer for Create & Cultivate, steering its content strategy across social media and live events. Her platform boasts a following of about 135,000 on her own channels, while Create & Cultivate adds an additional 720,000 followers.

Together with CEO Marina Middleton, Johnson co‑hosts the WorkParty podcast, which has featured guests such as Sara Blakely and Tyra Banks. Beyond her media work, she invests as an angel in early‑stage, female‑led companies and is a regular speaker on the creator economy and business circuits.

Johnson’s representation includes Entertainment 360 and Ponte Firm, positioning her within a network of talent agencies and management companies. Her recent signing with Gersh signals a broader alignment with agencies that cater to creators who blend entrepreneurial expertise with media influence.

## Implications & Future Moves

Gersh’s addition of Johnson expands its portfolio of creators who command significant followings and industry connections. The agency’s focus on talent that merges business acumen with cultural production aligns with Johnson’s track record in scaling a media brand and securing substantial venture capital.

Johnson’s dual role as Chief Creative Officer and angel investor positions her to bring fresh perspectives to Gersh’s client roster, potentially opening collaboration opportunities across media, events, and investment. Her podcast experience with high‑profile guests may also enhance Gersh’s event and content initiatives.

Looking ahead, the partnership could facilitate joint ventures in event programming and creator‑centric investment funds, though specific projects remain unannounced. Both parties have not yet detailed a formal roadmap beyond the initial signing.

With this new alignment, Gersh continues to broaden its reach into the creator economy, while Johnson leverages her established platform and investment expertise to explore new opportunities.