Rising Stars: Meet Daniel Yi of Los Angeles, CA

Today we’d like to introduce you to Daniel Yi.

Hi Daniel, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I started my career at PwC in audit and finance, but I quickly realized my real passion was understanding how people connect with brands and technology. I’ve always been drawn to the intersection of data, storytelling, and growth. That led me to transition into digital marketing and analytics roles at companies like Disney, Loot Crate, Weedmaps, and PacSun. Each step gave me a deeper understanding of how data and creativity work together to drive real results.

From there, I led marketing and ecommerce for lifestyle brands like Rastaclat and Fanjoy, where I learned how to scale audiences and build communities through social and creator partnerships. At Bob’s Watches, I helped modernize a legacy brand and drive record-breaking online growth.

Today, I’m the Chief Marketing Officer at REACH, where we’re building one of the fastest-growing creator and marketing ecosystems in North America. We connect brands and creators, launch new ventures, and push boundaries in influencer marketing, performance, and TikTok Live.

Along the way, I’ve also started and advised multiple ventures that merge tech, content, and culture. What keeps me going is simple — helping people and brands grow through creativity, data, and community.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Definitely not a smooth road, but I wouldn’t change it. Every challenge taught me something important. Early in my career, I struggled with imposter syndrome and trying to find where I fit. I went from corporate environments like PwC and Disney to fast-paced startups where there was no roadmap and you had to figure things out as you went. That constant shift forced me to become adaptable and learn fast.

There were times when teams got restructured, projects failed, or budgets were cut. I’ve been through layoffs, startups that didn’t work out, and seasons where burnout was real. But those moments taught me resilience and clarity about what really matters — people, purpose, and progress.

Now, when things get chaotic or uncertain, I look back and realize those experiences prepared me for leadership. You can’t grow without friction. Every setback helped me develop the mindset to stay grounded, keep learning, and keep building no matter what’s in front of me.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I help brands and creators grow. My background is in marketing, analytics, and brand storytelling, so my focus has always been connecting data with creativity to drive real results. Over the years, I’ve led marketing and digital strategy for brands across entertainment, lifestyle, and ecommerce — from Disney and PacSun to Bob’s Watches and Fanjoy.

Right now, I serve as the Chief Marketing Officer at REACH. We’re building a full ecosystem that bridges creators, brands, and emerging technology. REACH has divisions in marketing, talent, studios, ventures, and a fast-growing TikTok Live Creator Network that partners directly with TikTok in the U.S. and Canada. What makes our work exciting is that we’re helping shape the future of how creators earn, how brands connect, and how communities form around content.

What I’m most proud of is the culture we’re building — one that values growth, creativity, and real human connection. I’ve been fortunate to mentor teams and individuals who’ve gone on to do amazing things. That’s the best part of what I do.

What sets me apart is that I approach marketing like an entrepreneur, not just an operator. I don’t see marketing as just driving clicks or sales — it’s about building something meaningful that lasts, whether that’s a brand, a community, or a movement.

In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
The marketing and creator industries are changing faster than ever. Over the next decade, I think we’ll see a major shift toward creator-led ecosystems where individuals, not just brands, drive most of the attention and commerce online. The traditional gap between content, community, and commerce is disappearing.

AI will completely reshape how marketing operates — from creative production and personalization to data-driven decision making. The people and brands that know how to use AI as an accelerator, not a replacement, will win.

At the same time, authenticity will matter more than algorithms. Consumers are smarter, and they can tell when something feels real versus manufactured. The creators and companies that lead with purpose, transparency, and connection will build the most loyal audiences.

In short, the next wave of marketing isn’t about selling more products — it’s about creating ecosystems where people feel seen, understood, and part of something bigger.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://reachprojects.co/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yidaniel/