We recently connected with Laney Estel and have shared our conversation below.

Laney, appreciate you joining us today. We’ve love to hear an interesting investment story – what was one of the best or worst investments you’ve made? (Note, these responses are only intended as entertainment and shouldn’t be construed as investment advice)

One of the best investments we ever made—though we really wish we had made it sooner—was in finding and investing in the right mentors and communities.

When we first started Ares Lane Creative, my brother and I knew how to make dynamic, quality content. We had the creative side locked down. But where we struggled was understanding how to scale, position ourselves in the UGC space, and price our work effectively. Like a lot of creators, we fell into the trap of watching free content online, piecing together tips from random sources, and hoping we could “figure it out” on our own. That cost us months of progress.

The real breakthrough came when we started researching who actually had the knowledge we were missing—not just the loudest voices online, but people with proven results, community backing, and values that aligned with ours. That network has been invaluable. It helped us land better clients, refine our pitches, and negotiate fairly for usage rights and renewals. And honestly? It’s made the journey a lot less lonely.

We’ve also become more discerning. We learned the hard way that not every “guru” is worth following. Some communities were all hype and no depth—and we wasted time and money before realizing we needed to trust our gut more. Now, we evaluate whether someone is really doing what they teach, and whether their students are succeeding too.

The biggest lesson? You can’t do this alone. There’s so much value in being part of a community, in asking questions, sharing wins and struggles, and learning from people a few steps ahead of you. The earlier you find your people—and invest in being an active member of that space—the faster you grow. That support system is one of the smartest moves we’ve made for both our business and our peace of mind.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Our journey into the world of UGC wasn’t something we planned—it was something we grew into. I’ve been a content creator for over a decade, with roots in the beauty and lifestyle world. Over time, my platforms evolved to include book reviews, theme park experiences, accessible travel content, and product spotlights that reflect my unique perspective as a plus-size woman with mobility challenges and chronic pain.

Marshall and I realized that our combined strengths—my years of storytelling and content creation, and his creative eye and humor—could create something really special. That’s how Ares Lane Creative was born: a space for us to help brands create scroll-stopping, personality-filled short-form video content that actually connects with viewers and converts.

We specialize in UGC videos, particularly TikToks, Reels, and Shorts, that blend authenticity with strategy. Whether it’s product demos, lifestyle integrations, day-in-the-life storytelling, unboxings, or skits—our goal is to create content that feels like it belongs in someone’s feed, not an ad interruption. Brands can choose to work with just me, just Marshall, or both of us as a duo.

What sets us apart:

Our storytelling is rooted in real experiences—I bring my lens as a disabled, plus-size traveler, and Marshall adds balance with a more traditional male consumer POV.

We understand the importance of accessibility, representation, and inclusivity in marketing—because we live it.

We focus on partnership, not just one-off videos. Many of our clients return again and again because they trust our process, results, and care for their brand.

And… we make it fun! Working with us feels like collaborating with your creative besties who get stuff done.

What I’m most proud of:
Watching our little idea become a real business with repeat clients, increased revenue, and visibility has been amazing. But what I’m most proud of is when people reach out and say: “I saw your video and it made me feel seen.” That’s the kind of impact we want our content—and our clients’ products—to have.

If there’s one thing I want people to know about us and our work, it’s this:
We’re more than content creators. We’re brand storytellers, community builders, and your secret weapon for content that actually resonates. Whether you’re a brand looking for creators who get it, or a follower looking for fun, honest, real-world reviews and moments—you’re in the right place.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

Yes—and for me, it’s deeply tied to being a disabled creator.

A lot of non-creatives (and even some creatives!) don’t realize how much extra effort goes into building a creative career when you’re navigating the world with chronic pain, mobility challenges, and other accessibility barriers. Content creation isn’t just about filming something cute and hitting post. It’s planning around pain flares. It’s adapting shoots because your body has limits. It’s fighting burnout when your energy isn’t unlimited but the algorithm demands consistency anyway.

It’s also about being seen—really seen—in an industry that often values aesthetics over authenticity. Being a plus-size, mobility aid-using woman in this space means I don’t always “fit the mold.” But that’s also the gift. Because I know there are people out there looking for representation. Looking for someone who reflects their reality. And I show up for them.

I think some people underestimate the creative power it takes to turn obstacles into opportunities. I don’t get to “power through” like some other creators. I have to be intentional. I have to be smart with my time, energy, and resources. And that has made me a better creative and a better business owner.

The biggest insight I’d share is this: Creativity isn’t limited by ability—it’s enhanced by perspective. Disabled creators bring something rare to the table: innovation born out of necessity, empathy shaped by experience, and storytelling that reflects real, layered human lives.

So if you’re watching someone navigate both content and chronic illness with grace and grit—know that what you’re seeing is more than talent. It’s resilience. It’s strategy. And it’s powerful.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

We need to start by normalizing that creatives deserve a fair, livable wage—period. The “starving artist” trope isn’t just a cliché—it’s the default for so many people trying to make art or content their career. From illustrators to musicians to UGC creators like me, we’re constantly being asked to work for “exposure,” to accept below-market rates, or to give up usage rights without compensation.

People don’t realize that many of us are holding down multiple jobs just to afford the time and tools to create. It’s not because we lack talent or drive—it’s because the system doesn’t value our work in the same way it values traditional labor. But here’s the truth: creativity is labor. And when it’s used to sell, market, educate, or inspire—it has value that should be respected financially.

In the UGC world, we’re pushing hard to change this narrative. We’re not just hobbyists posting for fun—we’re strategists, marketers, videographers, editors, and talent all rolled into one. Brands are making real money from content we create. That means we should be paid accordingly, with transparent terms and fair renewals.

If society really wants to support a thriving creative ecosystem, it starts with this:

Pay artists what they’re worth.

Stop expecting content for free or “for the love of it.”

Make space for diverse creators—disabled, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent—and invest in their voices.

Fund the arts, support creative education, and uplift platforms that prioritize creator rights.

Thriving creatives build thriving communities. But we can’t thrive when we’re barely surviving.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.areslanecreative.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zaineylaney/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ZaineyLaney
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@zaineylaney