I so agree with the negative perception of Steem and the confusion with Steemit.
I just submitted my Steem 2020 proposal to onboard youtubers such as data dash and then form a relationship with them. He and others in the same field could do wonders in promoting Steem. We can also change the perception of Steem through them.

If you are interested here is my proposal: https://steemit.com/steem2020/@intrepidsurfer/community-driven-strategic-public-relations-marketing-and-onboarding-2020

Power in numbers here.