Australian wellness entrepreneur Georgie Stevenson finds herself at the center of a PR firestorm.
The 32-year-old influencer, known for her multimillion-dollar empire including the brand NU Harvest and the Rise And Conquer mindset app, is facing intense scrutiny following a social media post labeled by followers as “grossly insensitive” and “uneducated.”
The controversy erupted during a period of significant economic strain for Australians.
As average fuel prices in New South Wales (NSW) surged to $2.40 per litre for unleaded and a staggering $2.84 for diesel, Stevenson shared a now-deleted video that appeared to mock those struggling with the rising cost of living.
The content in question featured Stevenson casually sipping an iced coffee in her kitchen. The accompanying caption delivered a sharp jab at the public’s financial anxieties:
“Some people choose to complain about the cost of fuel. Other people chose to build their own success, co-own three companies and buy a Porsche at 28 years old. I’m other people.”
For a creator who built her platform on body positivity, manifestation, and “kindness-first” energy, the shift toward what fans called “hustle culture elitism” was jarring.
The backlash was instantaneous, with thousands of followers calling out the stark disconnect between a wealthy influencer and families currently choosing between filling their tanks or buying groceries.
Social media users did not hold back, highlighting the global factors—including international conflicts and supply chain disruptions—that have driven Australian petrol prices up by more than 20% following recent strikes in the Middle East.
“Some people complain because they literally have to choose between fuel and groceries,” one viral comment read. “Calling people ‘complainers’ while they are funding your lifestyle is wild. Go touch some grass.”
Another user pointed out the sheer lack of empathy regarding the global climate: “A full tank for a family car is $250+.
Do you even know why prices have gone up? Are you aware there is a war going on? You’re actually so ignorant.”
Following the wave of “unfollows” and negative press, Stevenson removed the post and issued a lengthy statement.
In a move often seen in high-profile crisis management, she attributed the lapse to an external content agency while she was transitioning back from maternity leave.
“An external agency I hired to help with content posted a trial reel that I had not approved,” Stevenson explained.
“I realise how serious this is considering it’s my account, my face and ultimately, my brand. The messaging completely missed the mark; it was out of touch and incredibly insensitive.”
Acknowledging the “influencer apology” trope, she attempted to bridge the gap with her audience by promising a structural change in how her brand communicates:
“I feel disappointed this was posted to my page. I would never want someone to feel hurt or less than, so I am deeply sorry. I’m conscious this might seem like just another apology post, but please know this has been a wake-up call.”
While Stevenson has taken the necessary steps of deleting the content and issuing a formal apology, the digital footprint of the “Porsche Boast” remains a cautionary tale for creators.
In a world facing record inflation, “manifesting” success can quickly be reinterpreted as “ignoring” reality.
As Stevenson works to refine her internal processes and regain the trust of her community, the industry will be watching to see if her “Rise And Conquer” philosophy can adapt to a more socially conscious and economically pressured audience.