Alessandra Catanese

CEO
Smosh

Featured Industry Speaker

Alessandra Catanese is an American entrepreneur who currently serves as both the CEO of viral digital comedy brand Smosh. Prior to her work at Smosh and Pressalike, Catanese helped found the talent department at Maker Studios from 2010-2015, before starting the Los Angeles division of Patreon in 2016. Catanese then went on to become a leading talent manager at Anonymous Content where she signed clients such as BennyDrama, Anthony Padilla and Kelsey Darragh. In 2020, Catanese alongside Padilla, founded Pressalike, which has since earned multiple Streamy Nominations as well as a Webby Award. In 2023, Catanese helped guide Pressalike's acquisition of Smosh, the long running digital comedy brand founded by Anthony Padilla and Ian Hecox, where she now oversees operations of the company and its 55 employees. 

Industry Track

Transforming Legacy Channels & Talent into Media Companies with Lasting Legacies

Duration: 45 minutes

Location: Ballroom AB (Industry Mainstage)

Thursday, June 19

11:15 am - 12:00 pm

Featuring: Alessandra Catanese (CEO at Smosh), Brian Flanagan (President at Mythical Entertainment), Ian Hecox and more

What does it take to turn a legacy channel into a lasting media company? Short answer: a lot more than just content. It takes operational discipline, brand architecture, IP development, and a long-term vision for growth that preserves the core DNA that fans expect. Join creative and operational leaders from Mythical and SMOSH — two of the most successful creator-led enterprises — for a candid conversation about evolving from channels into companies built to endure.

Participants


Industry Track

Beyond the Algorithm: Creator-Owned Direct Distribution

Duration: 40 minutes

Location: 303 AB

Friday, June 20

11:20 am - 12:00 pm

Featuring: Alessandra Catanese (CEO at Smosh), Hannah Doyle (Writer at The Publish Press), Jacob Moncrief (Chief Operating Officer at Mythical Entertainment) and more

As creators navigate an increasingly complex digital landscape, traditional platform dependencies are giving way to more direct audience connections. This session explores how creators are taking control of their content distribution, building sustainable revenue streams, and creating deeper fan engagement. Featuring insights from leading creators and technology experts, we'll dive into the emerging strategies that are transforming how digital talent monetizes and connects with their audiences.

Participants