We seem to think very similarly
For me it’s that these influencers, when they start off small, interact and create this friendship that paves a way to selling. Followers genuinely believe that the influencer is their friend and that they are part of some ridiculous ‘gang’ or ‘club.’ Eventually they become so cold (usually alongside the blue tick) that they only reply to other influencers but the groundwork was set - you suggest a overpriced sweatshirt and I buy it therefore we’re friends. It’s dangerous territory, especially where the demo for the SOD’s is new mothers who are more vulnerable.
He’ll sleep just fine, every night, because as far as he’s concerned there’s an unfollow button and that’s your fault for not using it