The Money Walk: Your New Favorite CEO Habit for Clarity, Content, and Cash

If you’ve ever felt stuck, scattered, or like your best ideas only come after the meeting is over — this is for you.

I’m Katelyn Rhoades, business coach, podcast host, and mom of two, and today I’m sharing the single most powerful routine I’ve added to my week — and it’s completely free. I call it the Money Walk.

You’ve heard of a “hot girl walk,” right?
Well, a Money Walk is the CEO version — designed to unlock creativity, clarity, and cash flow.

Let’s dive in.

What Is a Money Walk?

A Money Walk isn’t about steps.

It’s about strategy.

It’s when you intentionally take a walk — not to hit a fitness goal, but to move the needle on your business. No laptop. No notes. Just you, your AirPods, and a podcast episode that fuels your business brain.

I started taking these walks in between client calls or after school drop-off — just to clear my head. But I noticed something…

💡 I’d come home with content outlines, launch ideas, even entire podcast scripts.

These walks became my secret weapon.
When I stepped away from the screen, I could suddenly see my next move.

And now? They’re a non-negotiable part of my weekly routine.

Why I Swear by Money Walks

As a mom, entrepreneur, and creative — there isn’t always time to sit down with a whiteboard and silence. But I can carve out 20 minutes to walk the neighborhood. And that’s where the magic happens.

Here’s why I believe every CEO (especially busy women building brands) needs a Money Walk:

• It clears the mental clutter

• It replaces doom-scrolling with intentional strategy

• It turns passive learning into actionable insight

• It realigns you with your future self, not your current overwhelm

Some of my most profitable launches, digital offers, and Reels content started as voice notes on a Money Walk.

You don’t need fancy gear or perfect timing — you just need to show up.

3 Podcast Episodes to Fuel Your First Money Walk

Ready to try your first Money Walk but don’t know where to start?
Here are 3 podcast episodes that will spark your next big idea:

🎙️ 1. Call Her Creator – My Podcast

Start with: “Mastering Instagram Reels: Growth Strategies for Busy Entrepreneurs”
This episode breaks down how I turned short-form video into real revenue, without burning out. It’s actionable, energizing, and designed to give you your next Reels idea on the walk.

🎙️ 2. Earn Your Happy by Lori Harder

For the woman chasing goals and joy — this podcast will fill your cup. Lori blends mindset, strategy, and real-talk for high-achieving women who crave freedom.

🎙️ 3. Cubicle to CEO by Ellen Yin

This podcast is all about numbers and strategy. Ellen brings on real business owners who share their behind-the-scenes wins and lessons — making it the perfect listen for your walk-to-win routine.

How to Start Your Money Walk Routine Today

You don’t need a master plan — just a moment of intention.

Here’s your 3-step challenge:

1. 👟 Lace up your sneakers

2. 🎧 Put in your headphones

3. 💡 Choose one of the episodes above and walk it out

✨ Bonus: Voice note yourself any idea that comes up. Those quick thoughts? They’re gold.

If you take a Money Walk this week, I want to hear about it!
📸 Snap a pic or record a quick video, tag me @thekatelynrhoades, or DM me what podcast you listened to.
Let’s turn your steps into strategy — and your mindset into momentum.

Final Thoughts

The Money Walk is more than a walk — it’s a mindset shift.

It’s where strategy meets movement.
Where content is created in your mind before it ever hits a Google Doc.
And where overwhelmed turns into opportunity — one step at a time.

Try it. Stick with it. And watch what happens when you start showing up as the CEO your next level requires.

Listen to the full episode on Apple

Listen to the full episode on Spotify

Want my MoneyWalk playlist? Download my [free] Money Walk Method + Playlist HERE

How to Pivot and Grow on Instagram in 2025: Lessons from Meg Harriman

Tired of feeling stuck on Instagram? You’re not alone—and you’re definitely not failing. In a recent Call Her Creator episode, I sat down with social media strategist and dual-brand creator Meg Harriman (@socialmediawithmeg) to talk about what to do when growth stalls, how to find your voice again, and what content is actually working on Instagram in 2025.

Whether you’re just starting out or feeling like your once-growing account has plateaued, this episode is full of mindset shifts, practical tips, and refreshing honesty about life as a creator.

Meg’s Journey: From Nutrition Coach to Full-Time Creator

Meg didn’t plan to become a social media strategist. She started her first Instagram account back in 2015 while working as a holistic nutritionist. She grew her audience organically by documenting her fitness journey and sharing her struggles—especially around body image and mental health.

“It was really organic,” Meg said. “I focused on my own struggles, and people naturally connected with it.”

As she began gaining traction and inquiries from other aspiring creators, Meg decided to dig into the why behind her growth. She started studying consumer behavior, content psychology, and algorithm strategies—and eventually launched a second Instagram account focused on teaching others how to grow.

Starting Over (And Why It’s Terrifying)

Meg started her @socialmediawithmeg account from zero—yes, zero—and admits it was scary teaching growth strategies while her new page had just a few hundred followers.

“I wanted to prove to myself and everyone else that I could grow again with intention—and not just because I was posting fitness content in a sports bra,” she joked.

To grow her new page, she posted 1–2 times per day, 6 days a week, using carousels, infographics, and high-value content that spoke directly to her audience’s pain points. She stresses that quality and consistency are what matter most.

What’s Working on Instagram Right Now (and What Isn’t)

Here are Meg’s key tips for growing in 2025:

• Less polish, more personality.
  Instagram is moving away from curated feeds and toward authentic, raw, relatable content. Talking-head videos, storytelling, and unscripted Reels are taking off.

• Don’t sleep on trial Reels.
  Meg credits Instagram’s new trial Reels feature with helping her get out of a year-long plateau. She recommends reposting high-performing Reels with new audio or timing to test what works best.

• Reframe your growth metrics.
  “I used to get 500K views a week. Now I celebrate 8K,” Meg says. “Compare yourself to yesterday—not two years ago.”

• Use visual hooks.
  The first 1–2 seconds of your Reel need to visually grab attention. Think: walking into frame, applying lip gloss, picking up the camera—anything to make someone stop scrolling.

• Create more than you consume.
  Get out of the comparison trap. Meg encourages creators to mute accounts that make them feel stuck and spend time creating, even when it’s not tied to a deadline or post schedule.

Stuck on Instagram? Try This:

• Pick one pain point your audience has—then film a 30-second Reel talking about it

• Post 5–6 times a week for 90 days if you’re just starting

• Batch your B-roll and talking videos separately to save time

• Test trial Reels using proven content with new audio

• Focus on DMs and comments more than likes and followers

The One Thing Meg Wishes She Knew Sooner

“Real connection matters more than follower count. The conversations you have in DMs and comments? That’s what lasts—even when the algorithm doesn’t.”

🎧 Listen to the full episode: Stuck on Instagram? Here’s How to Pivot and Grow Again with Meg Harriman

Looking for more tips like this?

👉 Download the Digital Product Starter Kit to start monetizing your content today. Call Her Creator is powered by Stan, you’re all-in-one Creator store!

How Monty Lans Turned Content Creation Into a Calling

If you’ve ever needed a push to finally start showing up online, this one’s for you.

In this episode of Call Her Creator, I sat down with one of the most magnetic creators I know—Monty Lans. From dancing in Steve Harvey suits as a kid to launching the Creative Genius Club, Monty’s story is the ultimate reminder that humor is strategy—and there’s power in showing up authentically, even when no one’s watching (yet).

Meet Monty Lans: Creator, Coach, and Community Builder

Monty is one of those people who lights up every room he walks into—and it’s no different online. Whether he’s pranking his mom, dropping gems on Reels strategy, or coaching creators on how to grow a personal brand from scratch, he does it with a mix of joy, depth, and real-deal insight.

I met Monty at Stan Store’s Million Dollar Mastermind, and I knew instantly I wanted to bring his voice to the podcast. Why? Because he’s the kind of creator who didn’t just go viral—he built his audience brick by brick, DM by DM.

How It Started: A Foodie Page and a Dream

Monty didn’t start out trying to be a coach. He and his wife were just foodies with an iPhone, chasing free meals and creative fulfillment. Inspired by Instagram food influencers, they launched a foodie account, hit 10,000 followers, and even got invited to elite events like the Explorers Club and Heineken HQ.

But when real life hit—and the brand deals weren’t enough to cover the bills—they paused.

How It Pivoted: Pandemic Pressure Turned to Purpose

Like many creators, 2020 shook everything up. After losing his solar job during the pandemic, Monty sat with a simple but powerful question:

“What can I do to make money, help people, and actually enjoy it?”

That question led him back to content creation—and forward into coaching. He reflected on what he’d learned from growing his foodie page and created his first Instagram coaching offer in the middle of the night. With no fancy funnel and no plan, he built his first 50-slide presentation and started coaching friends for $100. The response was clear: he was on to something.

Building Without a Viral Moment

Monty didn’t blow up overnight. In fact, he spent months showing up on Clubhouse—networking, sharing tips, and DM’ing everyone who resonated. That effort led him to grow from 5,600 to 10,000 followers and land his first paid product: a $25 Reels workshop that made $4,000.

“Most people are looking for one viral Reel to change everything. But the truth is, overnight success happens over months—or years.”

Monty’s Advice for New Creators:

If you’re just getting started, Monty says skip the pressure to be perfect. Instead:

• Diversify to identify: Try different formats (green screens, voiceovers, storytelling, etc.) to see what feels good and what connects.

• Start with a low-ticket offer: Validate your idea with a $5–$25 product like a checklist, mini course, or one-day workshop.

• Build proof: Over-deliver for a few people for free or low-cost in exchange for testimonials and feedback.

• Know your people: Get clear on the lifestyle, pain points, and desires of your audience—and create content that speaks directly to that.

Monty’s Favorite Tools for Creators

• CapCut – for editing video content

• Stan Store – to host digital products, collect leads, and build a digital storefront

• ManyChat – to automate DMs and drive conversions

• Remini – to restore and enhance images

• Poppy – an AI tool for creating content (currently testing)

Key takeaways

• Monty's humor is his superpower in content creation.

• Building a personal brand requires authenticity and connection.

• Consistency in posting is key to growing a following.

• Engagement groups were once a strategy for boosting reach.

• The pandemic prompted Monty to pivot to coaching.

• Humor can be an effective tool for delivering value.

• Monty emphasizes the importance of community in content creation.

• Finding a balance between entertainment and education is crucial.

• Monty learned from observing other creators' strategies.

• Clubhouse played a significant role in Monty's growth. It took Monty a year to grow from 5,638 to 10,000 followers.

• Building a community on Clubhouse was key to his growth.

• Digital products are an effective way to start selling online.

• Market research is crucial for creating valuable products.

• Offering free services can help build testimonials and credibility.

• Consistency in content creation is essential for success.

• Understanding your audience's pain points leads to better content.

• Experimenting with different content formats keeps creativity alive.

• Using tools like CapCut and ManyChat can streamline content creation.

• Joining a supportive community can enhance your growth as a creator.

If you love Monty’s vibe and want more, his membership community The Creative Genius Club is packed with:

• Live trainings

• Weekly idea-sharing

• Monthly creativity labs

• Mentorship sessions

• Faith & fellowship circles

You can learn more or join at: www.creativegenius.club

This episode reminded me—and hopefully reminded you—that you don’t need a viral moment to be successful. You just need to start. Keep showing up. Keep refining. Keep laughing.

Listen to the full episode on Apple: HERE

Listen to the full episode on Spotify: HERE

💬 Let us know if you want a part two or a live workshop together! DM @callhercreator and tell us what you want to learn next from Monty.

The New Instagram Edits App: 5 Scrolling Stopping Editing Hacks

Your Ultimate Reels Editing Tool Just Dropped!

Instagram just dropped Edits—a brand-new app designed just for creators who want to edit high-quality Reels straight from their phone.

Here’s what you need to know.

What is Instagram Edits?

Edits is a mobile-first video editing app for Reels creators with:

✅ Longer camera capture
✅ Auto-enhance tools for quick glow-ups
✅ Easy project management (yes, finally!)
✅ Inspiration tab to help beat creative blocks
✅ Watermark-free, high-quality exports

Why Should You Use It?

Edits makes Reels easier to create, edit, and export without needing complicated software or third-party apps. Whether you're batching content or going viral on the go—this is your new bestie. You can even use these VIRAL Reel hook tips to supercharge your instagram Reels: 3 Proven Instagram Reel Strategies to Boost Engagement & Go Viral

When Can You Get It?

It’s rolling out globally starting today- April 22nd, so check your App Store or Google Play and grab it ASAP.

My Pro Tip:

Start testing this ASAP while it’s still new—the early adopters always win 🧠

5 Scroll-Stopping Reels Editing Tricks with Edits:

1. Use Auto-Enhance to instantly glow-up your lighting
   → No more dim or dull videos—just hit auto and go.

2. Zoom in slightly on your punchlines or key tips
   → Add drama and keep your viewer’s eyes locked on YOU.

3. Add a 0.5s delay on text overlays
   → Helps your captions hit right as you say the words = more engagement.

4. Cut every 3-4 seconds to match the average attention span
   → Fast, intentional edits = more watch time and shares.

5. Use the Inspiration Tab weekly to stay on-trend
   → Recreate what’s working while adding your unique spin.

Want help learning the ropes of the new Edits app and knowing exactly what to post? Inside Club Enfluence, we give you trendy, done-for-you Reels ideas every single Monday—so you're never stuck wondering what to film. We’ll help you master Instagram Edits, grow with short-form video, and finally feel confident showing up on camera. Join us and start creating content that actually works.

Are you new to instagram Reels? I’ve got a FREE 30 day Reels challenge to help you get your feet wet with instagram reels.

From 200 to 200k Reels Views Using the Rule of 7

Ever feel like you’re shouting into the void on Instagram — posting, promoting, and still hearing crickets? 🦗

Here’s the truth: Your audience isn’t ignoring you... they just haven’t seen you enough yet. I’m gonna show you how to take your instagram Reels views from 200 to 200k and have people SWARMING your Dm’s hoping to buy from you!

Introducing: The Rule of 7

The Rule of 7 is a proven marketing principle: your audience needs to hear from you at least seven times before they’re ready to take action.

The Rule of 7 originated from traditional marketing in the 1930s when movie studios discovered that audiences needed to see a film promotion at least seven times before deciding to watch it. Since then, marketers have adapted this principle to sales, branding, and now — social media. The Rule of 7 reminds us that consistency is key.

By showing up regularly through Reels, Stories, posts, and even DMs, you’re building trust, staying top of mind, and increasing the chances that your audience will take action.

Think about it — how many times have you scrolled past a product before finally deciding to buy? That’s the Rule of 7 in action.

But here’s the kicker... in today’s fast-paced world, it often takes 15-20 touchpoints to turn a cold follower into a paying customer.

Why Does This Work?

✅ Familiarity Breeds Trust: The more often your audience sees you, the more comfortable they become with your brand.

✅ Emotional Connection: Consistency builds relationships — and people buy from people they trust.

✅ Your Audience Forgets Fast: With social media overload, even your most loyal followers may miss your first few mentions.

The 7 Touchpoints You Need to Build Trust & Drive Sales:

1. Introduce Yourself: Share what you do, who you help, and how.

Example: Ever wonder what I actually do? Let me break it down — I help busy entrepreneurs like you turn Instagram followers into paying customers — without spending hours online."

Why It Works: This hook introduces who you are, who you serve, and what problem you solve — perfect for a first impression or re-introduction post.

Pssstttt.. we have FREE Canva Templates that can help you introduce yourself inside of our club enfluence membership

Club enfluence offers trendy Canva Templates & weekly Reels Trends and prompts: JOIN US TODAY!

2. Share Social Proof: Highlight client wins and testimonials.

Example:  "Meet [Client Name] — when she started working with me, she was struggling to get engagement on her Instagram posts. After implementing my content strategy, she gained 1,000 followers and landed 3 new clients in just 30 days!"

Why It Works: Highlighting a real-life win builds credibility and shows your audience that your method works.

Example from our enfluence Marketing Studio instagram account:

Pictured above: See how we’re giving them SPECIFIC results ‘This hack took us from 200 views to 20k views” >> this isn’t a direct client testimonial (though we do sprinkle those into our posting mix too) but it’s a GREAT way to hook someone in to a real-life win!

3. Educate & Add Value: Solve a problem or teach something helpful.

Example: Struggling to get people to watch your Reels all the way through? Try this simple trick — start your video with the phrase, ‘If you're struggling with [pain point], here’s what to do...’ It grabs attention fast!"

Why It Works: This hook taps into a pain point while positioning you as the expert.

This strategy has helped me grow my business and land more sales on Instagram

You have to listen to the full 7 Rules to really grasp this concept and understand why people aren’t buying from you.

In my latest podcast episode, I break down all 7 Rules and exactly how to apply the Rule of 7 to your Instagram content so you can turn followers into paying customers — without feeling salesy or spammy.

➡️ Listen now wherever you get your podcasts!

[CLICK HERE TO LISTEN ON APPLE]

[CLICK HERE TO LISTEN ON SPOTIFY]

📲 Follow me on Instagram for more actionable Instagram growth tips: @thekatelynrhoades

Are you new to instagram and ready to blow up your account? You’re in the right place! enfluence Marketing Studio is your go-to team for all things social media marketing! From full-service social media management to email marketing and even your own DIY marketing membership. We’ve got something for every creator! So grab a drink, scroll around and find what you’re looking for right here!

Why Most People Stay Stuck in 200-250 Reels View Jail (And How to Break Free!)

Getting stuck in what feels like Reels View Jail — where your videos barely break 200-250 views — is frustrating. The good news? There’s a reason behind it, and more importantly, a way out.

🚨 Why Are Your Reels Stuck in View Jail?

1. Inconsistent Content Themes

Instagram favors accounts that post consistently around a clear niche. If your content jumps between too many unrelated topics, the algorithm struggles to know who to show your content to. 

 ✅ Solution: Stick to 2-3 core content pillars [Educate, entertain, motivate]

2. Weak Hook in the First 3 Seconds

If your video doesn’t grab attention right away, viewers will scroll past — signaling to Instagram that your content isn’t engaging.
✅ Solution: Start with a strong hook like:

• “STOP doing this if you’re always tired…”

• “3 reasons you’re not losing weight (it’s not what you think).”

  Pro tip: Negative hooks are POPULAR right now

Here’s some good examples of strong hooks on your Reels:

3. Lack of Clear Value or Entertainment

People stay on content that’s either helpful or entertaining. Without one of these, viewers quickly move on.

✅ Solution: Share practical tips, step-by-step guidance, or relatable stories your audience connects with.

4. Low Engagement on Previous Posts

The algorithm watches for positive signals — likes, comments, saves, and shares. If recent posts underperformed, Instagram may be hesitant to push your new content. I like to use ManyChat  to help increase my engagement on posts! I typically set up DM automation so that I can automatically send value to my followers. Example, you commented a word to get this google doc delivered to you! 

 ✅ Solution: Use call-to-actions like:

• “Save this for later!”

• “Tag a friend who needs this!”

• “Would you try this? Comment “keyword” below!”

5. Posting Without Captions or Context

90% of users, watch Reels WITHOUT the sound on! This is important for you to know so that you can make sure you’re using closed captions or at least using the text tool to write keywords

• Silent viewers often rely on captions to stay engaged. 

• If your video lacks text or context, you may lose viewers fast.

 ✅ Solution: Add bold text on screen with clear instructions or key points.

6. Skipping Trends or Audio That’s Too Niche

Using outdated trends or music that’s too unfamiliar can limit your reach.
 ✅ Solution: Tap into trending audio (under 10K uses) for maximum exposure.

7. Posting at Inactive Times

Even great content can flop if posted when your audience isn’t active.

 ✅ Solution: Post during your audience's peak engagement times — often early mornings, lunch breaks, or evenings.

🔥 Your “Break out of Jail” Plan

 ✅ Post 3-4 Reels a week using trending audio or strong hooks. You can join us in club enfluence and have trends sent to you every monday so you don’t waste time looking for them yourself!
✅ Add bold text overlays for clarity.
✅ Include calls to action that boost engagement using ManyChat
✅ Stay consistent — it often takes 2-4 weeks of improved strategy to see results.

Breaking free from 200-250 view jail isn’t about luck — it’s about strategy. In club enfluence we send you weekly (eary) trending audio ideas and Reels that you can copy and post to GROW your account. 

>>> Join us inside: CLUB ENFLUENCE <<<<

We also offer full-service social media management for clients who are done running the rat race and want to hand it over to the pros.

APPLY TO WORK WITH US

How to Use Instagram Insights to Drive Growth and Engagement

Instagram analytics are essential for consistent account growth. They offer important insights into what truly connects with your audience AND are a direct guide to what content you NEED to be posting. 

How to access your analytics: 

First, make sure you have a professional (business or creator) Instagram account. 

On your profile, tap the "professional dashboard" button in your bio or go to the menu in the top right corner and click on “insights”. 

Once you are inside your professional dashboard, you'll get an overview of key metrics and can dive deeper into specific content for a more detailed look. Keep in mind that these insights are available for content posted since you switched to a professional account.

Why do Instagram analytics matter for growth?

✅ Content Optimization: Analytics show you which content your audience is engaging with the most, helping you fine-tune your strategy for better results. The more engagement you get, the more Instagram’s algorithm will boost your visibility. (Repurposing top performers, is one of the main strategies that helped me gain 173K Instagram followers.)

✅ Goal Alignment: Whether you’re aiming to grow your followers, increase story views, or drive traffic to your website, analytics help you stay on track and make sure your strategy is aligned with your goals.

✅ Campaign Measurement: Running a campaign? Analytics allow you to track its performance and see where adjustments can be made to improve results.

This keeps the message clear, actionable and focused on helping your audience understand why they should care about analytics.

Key Instagram Metrics You NEED to Pay Attention to for Real Growth

Here’s a breakdown of the key Instagram metrics that can help you reach NEW eyes and boost engagement to bring in more paying customers for your biz: 

Impressions: This tells you how many times your content has been viewed in total.

Reach: Reach shows the number of unique accounts that have seen your content. Impressions will always be higher than reach since one person can view your content multiple times. High impressions mean your content is engaging enough for people to revisit.

Engagement Rate: This shows how much interaction your content is getting compared to your follower count. To calculate it, use this formula: (Total Engagements / Follower Count) * 100. Keep an eye on this metric to track trends and ensure your strategy is working.

Follower Growth: A steady increase in followers means your content is attracting and keeping people interested. While it might seem like a vanity metric, follower growth expands your potential reach and has a positive impact on other important metrics like engagement.

Get the Instagram Algorithm to Favor Your Content

Now that you’re familiar with the key metrics, let’s talk about how you can improve them. First up is reach, which is essential for growing your audience. Here are tried and tested strategies (from yours truly) to help you get more EYES on your content.

• Create Engaging Content: Experiment with different formats like videos, photos, and text to see what resonates best with your audience. Keep your Reels short (under 90 seconds) to increase the chances of being recommended. Need fresh reel & post ideas? Check out my free Reels challenge

• Collaborate with Other Creators: Use features like Collabs and Enhanced Tags to tap into new audiences and expand your reach.

• Optimize for Search: Include relevant keywords in your captions, bio, and hashtags to help people discover your account through Instagram's search function. Tune into this podcast episode for my SEO strategy on Apple or Spotify! 👀

• Use the Favorites Feature: Encourage your most engaged followers to add you to their Favorites list to ensure your posts appear higher in their feeds.

• Monitor Your Insights: Regularly check your insights to identify trends, understand what's working, and adjust your strategy accordingly.

Use These Story Insights to 10X Your Views

Don't forget about Instagram Stories! Analyzing your Story insights can help you understand what resonates with your audience and how they interact with your content.

• Story Replies: This metric tracks the number of direct messages you receive in response to your Stories. High reply rates indicate that your content is sparking conversation and building relationships.

• Story Exits: Story Exits show you how many times people swiped away from your Stories. Monitor this metric to identify content that isn't resonating or if your Story series is too long.

To boost your Story engagement, try these tips:

• Use Interactive Stickers: Incorporate polls, quizzes, and question boxes to encourage audience participation.

• Experiment with Different Formats: Try a mix of photos, videos, and text to keep your Stories fresh and engaging.

• Post at Optimal Times: Pay attention to when your audience is most active and schedule your Stories accordingly.

By understanding and leveraging Instagram analytics, you can make data-driven decisions that fuel growth and engagement. Remember, it's not just about posting content; it's about creating content that resonates with your audience, aligns with your objectives, and keeps you ahead of the ever-evolving Instagram algorithm.

Want to learn more about Instagram strategy and hear inspiring stories from creators?

• Listen to Call Her Creator on Apple or Spotify 

• Follow Katelyn Rhoades for more social media tips and inspiration! 

10 Ways to Craft an Unforgettable Instagram Bio

Your Instagram bio is the first thing people see when they land on your profile. It’s your digital first impression—a tiny yet powerful space that can either hook your ideal audience or make them scroll away. A well-crafted bio not only introduces who you are but also encourages engagement, conversions, and brand growth.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• How to write a high-converting Instagram bio

• Keywords to use for better visibility

• The must-have contact info to include

• Optimizing your link in bio

By the end of this, you’ll have an Instagram bio that makes people hit the follow button without hesitation!

1. Write a Bio That Converts

Your Instagram bio should clearly communicate who you are and what you offer in just a few seconds. Think of it as a mini elevator pitch that instantly grabs attention.

Start by identifying your niche and unique selling point. Are you a business coach, a social media strategist, or a product-based brand? Spell it out clearly. Use a strong, concise sentence that highlights your expertise or the transformation you provide.

Example: 🚀 Helping small businesses grow with strategic social media marketing 💡

Instead of a generic statement, make it about your audience. Speak to their pain points and how you solve them.

2. Use Keywords for Searchability

Instagram bios are now searchable! That means including relevant keywords in your bio increases your chances of showing up when people search for topics related to your industry.

Think about what your ideal followers or customers are typing into Instagram’s search bar. If you're a fitness coach, keywords like "weight loss tips" or "strength training" can help you get discovered.

Example: ✨ Social Media Manager | Instagram Growth Strategist 📲

This approach ensures your bio is optimized for discoverability while remaining engaging.

3. Include Essential Contact Information

If you want potential clients or customers to take action, make it easy for them to contact you. Whether it's an email, website, or direct message, providing clear contact options is key.

Instagram business profiles allow you to add buttons for email, phone calls, and location, so take advantage of those features. But if you prefer to include it in your bio text, keep it simple.

Example: 📩 DM for collaborations or email info@yourbrand.com

4. Optimize Your Link in Bio

Your link in bio is prime real estate. Since Instagram only allows one clickable link, make sure it leads to something valuable. Whether it’s a link to your latest offer, a sales page, or a Linktree-style hub, make sure it’s working for you.

A clear call to action (CTA) can drive more clicks. Instead of just pasting a link, tell people why they should click it.

Example: 👇 Grab your free content calendar here! [insert link]

This small tweak can significantly boost conversions from your profile. We recommend using STAN store for your link in bio! It’s a digital store front for Creators! 

5. Add a Personal or Fun Touch

Your Instagram bio doesn’t have to be all business. Adding a personal touch, a bit of humor, or a unique flair can make your profile more relatable and memorable.

If your brand voice is playful, use emojis or a catchy phrase that reflects your personality. If you're running a business, incorporating a tagline can make you stand out.

Example: 🎤 Talking all things marketing + coffee ☕

The key is to stay authentic while keeping it relevant to your brand.

6. Use Line Breaks for Readability

A cluttered bio can be hard to read. Instead of cramming everything into one long paragraph, use line breaks to separate different sections. This makes it easier for visitors to quickly scan your bio and find what they need.

To add line breaks, type your bio in the Notes app on your phone, copy it, and paste it into Instagram.

Example: 📲 Social Media Expert
🚀 Helping brands grow with strategic content
📩 DM for inquiries
👇 Free marketing guide below
[insert link]

7. Add a Call-to-Action (CTA)

A great Instagram bio doesn’t just introduce you—it tells people what to do next. Whether you want them to follow you, check out your latest offer, or DM you, include a clear call-to-action.

Example: 👉 Follow for daily marketing tips!
👇 Apply for 1:1 coaching [insert link]

CTAs guide your audience toward the next step, increasing engagement and conversions.

PRO TIP: Listen to a recent podcast episode about captions from Katelyn on Call Her Creator: How to write High Converting Captions LISTEN ON APPLE or SPOTIFY

8. Showcase Social Proof

If you have impressive credentials, media features, or notable achievements, don’t be shy about highlighting them. Social proof builds trust and credibility.

Example: 📣 Featured in Forbes & Business Insider
🏆 10K+ students helped

This instantly positions you as an expert in your field.

9. Keep It Short & Impactful

With only 150 characters available, every word in your bio needs to serve a purpose. Avoid fluff and get straight to the point. If you struggle with trimming it down, prioritize what’s most important.

Example: ❌ "I’m a passionate digital marketer helping brands grow on social media with creative strategies and content."
✅ "🚀 Digital Marketer | Helping brands grow on IG 💡"

Short, sweet, and effective!

Check out these profiles for examples:

Katelyn Rhoades: https://www.instagram.com/thekatelynrhoades/ 

Enfluence Marketing Studio: https://www.instagram.com/enfluence.studio 

Call Her Creator: https://www.instagram.com/callhercreator/ 

10. Update Your Bio Regularly

Your business evolves, and so should your Instagram bio. Make it a habit to refresh it every few months to reflect new services, updates, or milestones.

For example, if you have a new course launching, highlight it in your bio. If you’re shifting your niche, tweak your keywords accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Your Instagram bio is more than just a few lines of text—it’s your brand’s first impression, sales pitch, and credibility builder all in one. By implementing these strategies, you’ll create a bio that not only attracts your ideal audience but also encourages them to engage and take action.

Now it’s time to audit your current bio and give it a makeover! 

Grab out FREE instagram profile audit HERE. 

Create Your First Digital Product: A Beginner’s Guide

Unlock Your Digital Product Potential

Are you ready to create your first digital product but don't know where to start? Well, you’re in the right place! Whether you're an entrepreneur, influencer, or creator looking to grow your income and audience, launching a digital product is an incredible way to do so.

In this guide, I'll walk you through the entire process—from brainstorming ideas, validating your product with your Instagram followers, designing your product, and pricing it to make sure it resonates with your audience. It doesn’t matter if you’re just starting out or if you already have a growing Instagram following, I’ve got the steps covered for you!

Step 1: Finding the Right Digital Product Idea

Before you dive into creating your first digital product, it’s crucial to know what your audience needs. The key is to offer a product that solves a problem or fills a gap. For example, if you’re using Instagram to grow your followers, you might notice what resonates the most with your community.

Tip: Leverage Instagram polls and engagement metrics to understand your audience’s pain points. Here’s how:

• Instagram Stories Polls: Ask your followers what they struggle with the most (e.g., fitness tips, productivity hacks, digital marketing advice, etc.). Your followers will give you honest feedback that can help shape your product.

• Analyze Your Instagram Engagement: Check which posts get the most likes, comments, or shares. This shows you the type of content that people are truly interested in.

For instance, if you're in the fitness niche and your followers are asking for quick workout routines, you might consider creating an eBook or a digital fitness guide.

Example: A fitness influencer with a strong Instagram presence could create a "7-Day Fitness Challenge" digital download or a monthly workout planner to meet the growing demand for fitness-related content. This product would tap directly into your audience's need for easily accessible, at-home fitness resources.

Step 2: Creating Your Digital Product

Now that you've identified the type of digital product to create, it’s time to get to work! This part can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s how to approach it:

Start with an Outline:

• What are the key topics or lessons your digital product will cover?

• Break down your content into easily digestible sections. If you’re creating a course, module-based content works best. If it’s a digital download, organize the information into pages or sections.

Use Simple Tools to Create Your Product:

• Google Docs: Write out your content in a simple, organized format. It's the perfect tool to plan and draft your ideas.

• Canva: For design purposes, use Canva. This tool has hundreds of templates for things like eBooks, checklists, and worksheets, making your product look professional.

• ChatGPT: If you need help writing content, ChatGPT can be an excellent assistant. For example, you can use it to generate ideas or help you with writing paragraphs for your guide.

Pro Tip: Make sure your Instagram audience knows you’re creating a new product! Keep them updated with sneak peeks, polls, and behind-the-scenes content. This keeps your community excited and engaged before the product launches.

Step 3: Designing and Branding Your Digital Product

Designing your digital product is just as important as the content you create. A well-designed product looks more professional, builds trust with your audience, and keeps them engaged.

Here’s what you need to do:

• Branding: Make sure your digital product aligns with your Instagram branding. Use the same fonts, colors, and style that you already use on your social media to create a cohesive look.

• Graphics and Photos: Incorporate eye-catching visuals. Use high-quality stock images or original photos that resonate with your audience. Tools like Canva make it easy to add visuals that enhance your content.

• User Experience: Keep it clean and easy to navigate. No one wants to struggle to read through your content, so make sure everything is clearly laid out.

If you’re creating a fitness guide, for example, include images of exercises, motivational quotes, and possibly before-and-after images to inspire your customers.

Step 4: Pricing Your Digital Product for Maximum Profit

Now comes the fun part—pricing! Setting the right price for your digital product can make all the difference in its success. Here’s how to get it right:

1. Know Your Audience’s Willingness to Pay: For example, if you have a following of Instagram users interested in fitness, they might expect to pay between $20-$50 for a fitness guide. But if your community is newer or smaller, it might be better to start with a lower price point.

2. Consider Competitor Pricing: Research other digital products in your niche and see how they’re priced. This helps you understand where you stand in the market and how to position your product competitively.

3. Create Value-Based Pricing: If your digital product offers tremendous value—like a comprehensive, step-by-step guide—you can price it on the higher end. For smaller products, like a checklist or template, you might want to price it lower.

Pro Tip: Once you’ve launched your digital product, keep an eye on the sales. If you’re not getting the response you expected, consider running a limited-time promotion or adjusting the price.

Ready to Launch Your First Digital Product?

Now that you’ve learned the steps to creating your first digital product, it's time to put your plan into action! Remember, the key to success lies in knowing your audience, offering a product that solves their problems, and promoting it consistently on Instagram.

Creating a digital product is an amazing way to grow your brand, provide value to your community, and even generate passive income. So, get ready to dive into your digital creation journey, and don’t forget to share your process on Instagram to keep your followers engaged! 

Tune into Call Her Creator on Apple or Spotify  for more expert tips on growing your social media, building your brand, and turning your passion into profit!

3 Proven Instagram Reel Strategies to Boost Engagement & Go Viral

Want more views on your next Instagram Reel?

Make a few simple tweaks and watch your views & engagement soar! 🚀

Experiment with These 3 Powerful Strategies! 👇

1. Increase Watch Time ⏳

Adam Mosseri just announced that watch time is their #1 factor when favoring content with the algorithm. So you need to make people WATCH your entire Reel.

➡️ The longer viewers stay on your Reel, the more the algorithm favors it!
➡️ How can you boost watch time? Try these simple yet powerful techniques:

1. Incorporate Motion: Start with subtle movement to keep your video dynamic. If you're unsure how, use Instagram’s built-in effects—just search “movement” or “zoom” for options!

• Here’s an example Reel where I am using motion as soon as I hit record: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFTxiPrJLXE/

• And another example here: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFG5jhYSYPZ/

• Notice this is simple, natural movements. Nothing crazy!

2. Use Transitions: Split your video into two clips and use Instagram’s Transitions to create a seamless and engaging effect.

Let IG do the work for you! Here’s how to use transitions using instagram’s in app editor

Pro Tip: Motion paired with trending audio creates anticipation, keeping viewers hooked for longer.

2. Keep It Short & Loopable 🔄

💥 Short, captivating videos encourage continuous replays!

💥 Use music that loops smoothly—this keeps viewers engaged without them even realizing they’re rewatching.

Loop reels are where the person has to keep watching to understand the video fully. You know those reels that have a lot of text on them? They’re typically LOOPING reels. The poster purposely put a lot of text on screen so that you’re having to re-watch the reel to read it all.

I don’t advise using looping reels all the time, but if you need a little boost in watch time, this is a go-to strategy you can run with for a quick win.

• This is KIND of what a looping reel is, but imagine this Reel being about 3 seconds shorter: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DC2tFLnS-jx/

3. Post at the Right Time ⏰

💥 Have you ever researched to see when your audience is most active on instagram? You can check this using a platform like Metricool.. this is my online scheduling tool..

The darker the graph gets, the more my audience is online, so I try to do my best content in the evenings.

Post when your followers are online and engaging to maximize reach and interaction.

➡️ Apply these three strategies and watch your Reel reach a WIDER audience on instagram! 🎉🔥

Have you tried all of these tips and still not seeing great results? If yes, it’s time to grab my Ultimate Reels Challenge and toolkit. Inside you’ll get 60 days of Reels with fill-in-the-blank hooks that WORK! I’ll also teach you the importance of the BIG 3 Hooks that every Viral Reel has.

GET THE CHALLENGE

Instagram Updates: What You Need to Know for 2025

We’re diving into the latest Instagram updates and how you can use them to boost your engagement and grow your following in no time. We’ll talk about all the exciting changes happening on Instagram, like the new carousel features, a fresh grid layout, and tips that will help you stand out in 2025. Plus, I’ll share the strategies that helped me 10X my results and how they can work for you too!

1. Carousel Updates: More Music and More Engagement

Instagram has seriously stepped up its carousel game this year. Now, you can add music to video carousels—something you couldn’t do before. This change allows you to elevate your carousels with the power of sound, helping boost your post engagement and increase your reach.

Here’s why this matters: Music helps capture attention, and carousels already offer more space to share in-depth content. Adding audio takes it to the next level, making your posts more shareable and giving followers a reason to interact. Remember, share-worthy content is key to gaining more visibility on the platform, and Instagram is giving you the tools to make your posts more engaging than ever before.

If you want to seriously boost your engagement, make sure you’re taking full advantage of this update. And if you’re not a graphic designer, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Our membership gives you access to ready-made, trendy carousel templates that can help elevate your content while saving you time! 

Here are FREE 10 Customizable Reel Covers that we created in Canva from our Club enfuence membership, enjoy!   

2. Instagram Grid Update: New Size, New Opportunity

Instagram has recently introduced a change to how posts appear on your grid. Now, taller, portrait-oriented images will take up more space, and this new layout could have a significant impact on your account’s reach. This change means that your posts will stand out more when users scroll through their feeds. It’s a subtle shift, but it could make your visuals more eye-catching, resulting in higher engagement.

Here’s what you need to remember: it’s not about comparing your performance to others. Instead, focus on creating content that resonates with your audience and makes the best use of the updated grid size. It’s time to focus on yourself and your brand, not on how everyone else is doing. You’ll see better results when you own your unique approach!

3. Reels Updates: Original Audio and More Personal Content

If you haven’t already, it’s time to jump on the Reels train. While trends are still important, Instagram is giving more weight to original content—specifically, your voice and ideas. The latest updates emphasize the importance of sharing personal, original audio and content that reflects your brand’s unique perspective.

Gone are the days of copying trends for the sake of it. Instagram is now rewarding creators who take a stand, create unique audio, and showcase what makes them different. So, put the gimmick reels behind you and embrace the power of authenticity. Your followers want to hear your voice, not just another viral dance. 

Follow me on instagram @thekatelynrhoades for more tips on trending reels, updates, and growing on social media! 

4. Boosting Engagement with New Features: DM Automation and Live Triggers

Instagram is also rolling out some new features that make it easier to engage with your audience. DM automation is getting more popular, and when combined with live triggers (like live chats or automatic responses), it’s a game-changer. This feature allows you to automate responses or prompts in real time, making it easier to interact with your followers during high-engagement moments.

If you’re not already using this feature, I highly recommend it. Automation can free up your time while still giving your followers a personalized experience. This is the perfect tool to help you streamline engagement and connect with more of your community.

5. Strategies for Maximum Reach in 2025

As we move forward into 2025, it’s essential to focus on intentional strategies. Here’s what I recommend: 

• Income Transparency: Be authentic about your success and what it took to get there. The days of BS claims are over, especially with the new FTC guidelines.

• DM Automation: When paired with IG Live, this is a powerful combo for creators who want to engage on a deeper level with their audience. 

In 2025, it’s all about keeping things simple and real. Don’t overthink your posts—just press post. Avoid overly-edited Stories and stop obsessing over how many views others are getting. The secret to success is focusing on your audience and providing value with every post.

Ready to Boost Your Instagram Growth?

If you’re ready to take your Instagram strategy to the next level, we have a posting schedule that’ll help you grow in just 14 days. Plus, our membership gives you access to a constant stream of trending Reels ideas, along with Canva templates to help you create content that connects. 

Listen to my Call Her Creator podcast on APPLE  or SPOTIFY for more tips on how to grow on social media! 

Get started today and see the difference these updates can make in your Instagram journey! 

This one Pivot Exploded My Reels Views to 1 Million+

Instagram Reels Strategy: Why Talking Head Videos Are Outperforming Trending Audio in 2025

Over the past few months, I’ve completely overhauled my Instagram Reels strategy—and the results speak for themselves. With Instagram’s latest update prioritizing long-form Reels on the Explore page, it’s clear the platform is shifting toward content that’s more real and relatable.

So what’s working now? Talking head videos.

Instead of chasing every trending audio or relying on fancy transitions, I’ve been showing up as me—raw, unfiltered, and straight to the point. These talking head Reels feature no background music, no high production value, and sometimes, not even makeup. Just honest, valuable advice delivered face-to-camera.

Psssssttt.. If you feel like your Reels are FALLING flat, grab my Instagram Growth Power Pack RIGHT NOW and explode your instagram growth in as little as 30 days… GET IT HERE

Why this works:

• Instagram is rewarding authenticity and longer watch times.

• Viewers are craving practical, actionable content they can trust.

• Talking head Reels increase both engagement and connection.

In fact, since shifting to this minimalist Reels approach, my views and engagement have consistently gone up.

Check out the screenshot below from just one week after implementing this new Reels strategy.

Want examples? I’ve linked a few of my top-performing talking head videos below so you can see exactly what’s working right now on Instagram.

---

If you’re considering this strategy, let me show you exactly how to make it work for you.

I explain this in more detail on my recent podcast episode: How to INCREASE your visibility in January: 

LISTEN ON APPLE

LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

4 tips to make long-form video work for you too:

1. Nail Your Hook (First 3 Seconds)

• Grab attention immediately with a strong opening line.

• Examples:

• “Here’s what nobody tells you about [topic].”

• “If you’re struggling with [problem], listen up!”

• “Stop making this mistake on [platform/topic]!”

2. Keep It Focused

• Address one specific problem or question per Reel.

• Aim for 30–60 seconds. If it’s longer, consider breaking it into parts.

3. Optimize for Captions

• Add on-screen text or captions since many people watch without sound.

• Highlight key points with bold text or bullet points.

• I’ve got a dedicated podcast episode on CAPTION AESTHETICS you can listen to here

4. ADD A STRONG CTA AT THE END

At the end of my Reel I make sure to have a strong CTA that drives more traffic. 

Example: I made you take action by telling you to comment a specific word on my Reel that then sent you this document.

I then set that keyword up in  ManyChat using DM automation to drive more engagement on my Reel. The more people comment, the more the algorithm thinks “hey her videos are gaining traction, let me keep showing this to more people”

The original Reel where I tested all of this, gained 30k views in the first couple of hours.

[ ManyChat is free up until you have a certain amount of followers, and then it starts charging you.. But it’s TOTALLY worth the investment because I get a LOT more traction when I don’t tell them to just ViSiT mY lINK in bIo (those days are dead yall, ain’t nobody going to click off your reel, click on your page, then go to your link in bio, then search through said link in bio– too much work for us these days)]

Example Reels:

EXAMPLE 1: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DDFQuFOp0dt/ 

EXAMPLE 2: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DDMpJczxKXg/ 

EXAMPLE 3: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DDVmp6lJubQ/ 

Want to level up your instagram game with weekly Reels prompts sent straight to your email?

Join club enfluence: we’ll send you 3-4 weekly Reels to record, audio options, captions + a library of Canva templates! We’ve got everything you need to grow on instagram, inside of this membership- you’ll also get access to me and my team of social media experts!

LEARN MORE 

P.S If you’re into podcasts and would rather listen to me explaining instagram growth tips verbally, you can check out Episode 44: Instagram Growth Strategies and Engagement Hacks: HERE

The ultimate ChatGPT prompt to skyrocketing your Instagram growth

It Feels Like a Cheat Code to Know This!

The ultimate ChatGPT prompt to skyrocketing your Instagram growth, gaining followers, and boosting engagement is here.

It’s actionable, and will transform how you grow your presence on Instagram.

1. Unlock Growth with SEO Keywords

One of the best ways to boost visibility and engagement on Instagram is by leveraging SEO keywords strategically.

Use this ChatGPT or prompt to generate a tailored keyword list for your content:

Prompt: "List 30 top search engine optimization keywords that [ideal customer] uses when searching to [solve the problem your offering addresses]."

💡 Why this works: These keywords help Instagram understand your content better and categorize it for the right audience.

How to use your keywords for maximum impact:

• Add them to on-screen text in your Reels (this ensures Instagram’s metadata can capture them).

• Include them 2-3 times in your caption naturally.

• Use them as hashtags to make your content searchable.

• If your Reel includes speaking, say the keywords out loud and make sure they appear in closed captions.

✨ Pro Tip: Consistently incorporating keywords ensures your content reaches your ideal audience and increases discoverability.

Bonus: Listen to this episode of Call Her Creator: How to get discovered on instagram using SEO

2. Double your enagement with Comment Replies

Engagement doesn’t end when someone comments on your post—it’s just the beginning.

Here’s how to make your comments work harder for you:

• Reply to every comment, and strategically include one or two of your SEO keywords in your replies. Instagram’s algorithm prioritizes meaningful, keyword-rich conversations.

💬 Example Reply: "Thank you! I love helping small business owners unlock their full potential. What’s your biggest challenge right now?"

3. Triple your Engagement with Follow-Up Comments

Take your comment strategy to the next level by adding questions to your replies. Keeping the conversation going signals to Instagram that your content is highly engaging.

✨ Example: Commenter: “This is so helpful!”
Your Reply: “I’m so glad it resonated! Which tip do you think you’ll try first?”

4. Create Viral-Worthy Carousels

Want to create scroll-stopping carousels that educate and convert? Use this prompt to generate engaging content:

Prompt:
"Create a 5-10 slide carousel that accomplishes problem-awareness, storytelling, and a call to action to a lead magnet that provides the solution to the problem for my audience. I am a ______ and I provide [offering or solution] for [target audience / ideal customer]."

🎯 Pro Tip: Break complex ideas into bite-sized slides and end with a strong call-to-action that directs your audience to your lead magnet or service.

5. Create Viral Worthy Reels

Reels need to catch the attention of your followers within the first 3 seconds. With that in mind, it’s important to understand the 3 magic hooks: Your text overlay, your visual hook and your caption hook. I explain all of this inside of my Viral Reels Toolkit and Challenge: GRAB IT HERE

Want more instagram growth secrets?

Want to take your Instagram growth to the next level? Join my instagram growth membership: CLUB ENFLUENCE

Inside this club, we give you everything you need to stay consistent and show up on instagram.

Every month we'll supply you with a detailed content calendar, {WEEKLY} Trendy Reels Prompt and captions, {BI-WEEKLY} Canva Templates and SO MUCH MORE...

Here's What You'll Get:

🔥 Trending Reels Ideas: Stay on TREND- without having to be glued to your phone! You'll receive weekly {early} trendy Reels ideas, to stay ON TOP Of the curve. The earlier you jump on trends- the easier it is to GET SEEN and go VIRAL!

🗓️ Content Calendar: A monthly content calendar with step by step instructions on what to post, swipe-able captions and TEMPLATES! You're entire marketing strategy is READY to go!

🎨 Custom Canva Templates: Access our curated library of Canva templates to showcase your services- we create everything from Swanky Stories to high converting carousels!

📝 100+ Captions Vault: Choose from our vault of expertly crafted captions to keep your audience engaged and eager to click that follow button.

🚀 Social Media Strategy: Know when to post, which hashtags to use, and strategies to boost your engagement and follower growth.

JOIN THE CLUB

Trial Reels on Instagram: What You Need to Know

Instagram’s new Trial Reels feature is a game-changer for creators and brands, offering the perfect way to experiment with new content ideas without risking your current engagement. Here’s everything you need to know to leverage this tool effectively.

PSTTTTT… I have a podcast episode going live on this specific subject TOMORROW: Click here and DOWNLOAD Call Her Creator so you can get notified when it’s live. 

What Are Trial Reels?

Trial Reels allow you to test new content ideas in a private setting before publishing them to your audience. 

Think of it as a "sandbox" where you can explore creative concepts, play with formats, and refine your messaging without worrying about engagement metrics or public feedback.

Key Features:

• Trial Reels are visible only to you until you decide to publish them.

• You can analyze basic performance metrics privately (e.g., time watched, completion rates).

• Ideal for trying new styles, hooks, or experimental content.

How to Use Trial Reels

1. Accessing Trial Reels:

• Go to the Reels tab and start creating a new Reel as usual.

• Before publishing, select the Trial Reel option.

2. Test Your Content:

• Experiment with different formats, hooks, or storytelling styles.

• Analyze the performance metrics Instagram provides in the Trial Reel dashboard. (I have a podcast episode on this where I teach you how to analyze your data for growth)

3. Refine & Publish:

• Make adjustments based on the data and feedback from your Trial Reel.

• Once you’re confident, publish it directly from the Trial Reel dashboard.

Best Practices for Trial Reels

1. Set a Clear Goal: Are you testing a new visual style, a hook, or a call to action?

2. Experiment Boldly: Try things you wouldn’t normally post—bold edits, untested trends, or niche-specific topics. Trial Reels are your safe space to experiment.

3. Leverage Analytics: Pay attention to metrics like watch time, completion rate, and engagement. These insights will guide you in improving your content.

Why Use Trial Reels?

• Lower Risk, Higher Creativity: Test content without the fear of public underperformance.

• Data-Driven Decisions: Make informed choices about what works best for your audience.

• Stay Ahead of Trends: Experiment with trending audio or formats before committing to them on your main feed.

Tomorrow at 9am EST I will be sharing feedback on trial reels exclusively on Call Her Creator.

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How To Build a Profitable Social Media Marketing Funnel

Social media is a goldmine for businesses looking to expand their reach, engage with potential customers, and boost sales. But how do you transform your social media presence into a consistent source of revenue? The answer lies in building a social media marketing funnel that is both effective and profitable.

A well-structured marketing funnel will guide potential customers through the buyer’s journey—from discovering your brand to making a purchase. In this blog post, we’ll show you how to build a social media marketing funnel that leverages platforms like Instagram to increase engagement, growth, and sales. Let’s get started!

1. Top of Funnel (TOFU): Creating Awareness for Your Brand

At the Top of Funnel (TOFU), your primary goal is to raise awareness and attract a broad audience. At this stage, your potential customers may not even know who you are, so it’s crucial to create content that resonates with their general interests or pain points.

On social media, educational content is the key to grabbing attention. Whether you're posting a blog, creating a social media video, or sharing a Reel on Instagram, your content should be designed to engage users who might be unaware of your product or service. A great strategy here is to share tips or insights that solve common problems in your industry. For example, a social media coach could post “5 Tips to Grow Your Instagram Following” or a business consultant could share a post on “How to Increase Website Traffic.”

To expand your reach, ensure you use relevant hashtags, post during peak times, and engage with your followers. The Instagram algorithm favors content that sparks engagement, so your focus should be on driving comments, shares, and likes. A call to action (CTA) in your post, like “Download our free checklist” or “Check out our blog for more tips,” helps to move people further into your funnel.

If you want more tips on creating effective content for your social media marketing funnel, make sure to check out my Instagram here.

2. Middle of Funnel (MOFU): Engaging and Nurturing Leads

Once you’ve captured the attention of your audience, the next step is to nurture those leads and build deeper connections. The Middle of Funnel (MOFU) is where you start to shift your focus from general awareness to targeted content that addresses specific needs or interests.

At this stage, your audience has shown interest in your content, maybe by following your page or engaging with your posts. This is when you want to use more personalized content, like Instagram carousels, stories, or webinars, to showcase your expertise and provide even more value. For instance, you could offer a free mini-course, a case study, or an eBook that dives deeper into the problems your audience is facing and how your solution can help.

A crucial tool in MOFU is email marketing. By capturing emails through content like lead magnets, free downloads, or exclusive access to webinars, you can begin a sequence of automated emails that provide even more targeted value. This will help you stay top-of-mind and nurture the relationship.

The MOFU stage is about building trust. Use customer stories, testimonials, and results-driven posts to show how your product or service has made a difference in the lives of others. Engage your audience with questions, polls, and quizzes to learn more about their needs and continue offering helpful solutions.

3. Bottom of Funnel (BOFU): Converting Leads into Customers

Now we reach the Bottom of Funnel (BOFU)—the stage where leads are ready to make a purchase. These leads are warm and have interacted with your content over time, but they may still need that extra push to convert. The BOFU stage is all about conversion and reinforcing your value.

At this point, your content should focus on demonstrating how your product or service directly solves the problem your lead has. This could be in the form of Instagram product demos, customer success stories, or limited-time offers. You might also create posts that showcase the features and benefits of your product in real-life situations.

Offering promotions, such as discounts or free trials, can be a great way to incentivize a purchase. For example, if you offer a service, promote a limited-time free consultation. If you sell a product, you might offer a bundle deal or discount for first-time buyers. This sense of urgency can push hesitant customers to make a decision.

Another critical tactic is showcasing social proof—the more your prospects see that others have had positive experiences with your brand, the more likely they are to trust you. Share user-generated content, customer reviews, and influencer collaborations to validate your offering and encourage final purchases.

4. Retention and Growth: Keeping the Momentum Going

Your journey doesn’t stop once a customer makes a purchase. Retention is just as important as acquisition. In fact, retaining customers can be much more profitable in the long run. At this stage, your goal is to build long-term relationships and keep your customers engaged.

You can keep your audience engaged by offering exclusive content, VIP access to new product launches, or discounts for repeat customers. On Instagram, feature your customers through user-generated content—show them how to use your product and encourage them to share their experiences.

You can also leverage affiliate marketing or referral programs. Reward your loyal customers for referring others to your brand. This not only boosts customer retention but also helps you expand your reach and grow your audience.

Additionally, continue providing value through Instagram Stories, polls, and Q&A sessions. Engage with your community and make them feel like they are an important part of your brand’s journey. When customers feel valued, they’re more likely to advocate for your business and bring in new leads.

If you want to learn more about building a profitable social media funnel and get even more tips on growing your business, listen to my episode of Call Her Creator Podcast on Apple or Spotify.

Building a Profitable Social Media Funnel for Long-Term Growth

A social media marketing funnel is a powerful tool for driving growth, engagement, and sales. By following the TOFU, MOFU, and BOFU stages, you can create a seamless experience that nurtures your leads from awareness to conversion and beyond. Whether you’re using Instagram, Facebook, or any other social platform, remember that content is key—create valuable, engaging content that speaks to your audience at every stage of the funnel.

By continuously optimizing your social media strategy and leveraging the power of algorithms like Instagram’s, you can build a profitable funnel that drives consistent growth and success. Start today, and watch your social media efforts turn into tangible results!

10 Tips to Show Up Confidently on Instagram in 2025

Confidence is Your Secret Weapon for Success

Be Real, Not Perfect: 10 Proven Tips to Boost Your Confidence as a Creator and Grow Your Business in 2025

As a creator or business owner, confidence is one of the most powerful tools you can wield. In today’s social media-driven world, showing up authentically is the key to building relationships, engaging with your audience, and growing your business. 

But here's the catch: it’s easy to get caught up in the need for everything to be perfect before you post, share, or create.

Let’s put that myth to rest right now—perfection isn’t the goal. In fact, it’s often the very thing that holds you back. Whether you’re marketing on Instagram or any other platform, showing up as your true, unpolished self is what will actually resonate with your audience. 

This post is packed with 10 actionable tips to help you boost your confidence as a creator, let go of perfectionism, and build the kind of community that will propel your business forward in 2025. Ready to take your social media marketing to the next level? Let’s dive in. 

🔗 Don’t forget—follow @thekatelynrhoades

Mindset Shifts: Let Go of Perfection, Embrace Progress

Before we dive into the actionable tips, we need to talk about your mindset. Confidence doesn’t magically appear—it grows through thought shifts and actions. The first step in building confidence as a creator is changing how you view your content and how you show up online.

Done is better than perfect—This is the most important mindset shift you need to make. The idea of creating “perfect” content can paralyze you, but remember, your audience cares about connection, not flawless production. If you’re posting content just to impress others, it might not truly resonate. Focus on providing value and serving your community through your expertise, experience, or story. Perfection will never create connection—authenticity does.

The second mindset shift is that confidence grows with action. It’s easy to wait until you “feel ready” or “perfect,” but confidence doesn’t come from inaction. It comes from stepping out of your comfort zone, trying new things, and learning as you go. With every post, video, and story you share, your confidence will grow. This approach works wonders, especially for platforms like Instagram, where constant engagement is key to building a strong brand presence. 

Tip 1: Start Small with Instagram Stories

Instagram Stories are an excellent place to begin your confidence-building journey. Unlike regular posts or Reels, Stories feel less permanent and less intimidating, giving you the chance to practice without the fear of messing up. Plus, Stories are a great way to share behind-the-scenes glimpses of your business, personal life, or creative process, which helps build a deeper connection with your followers.

Actionable Tip: Start by sharing simple, casual updates in your Stories. Show your workspace, talk about something you’re working on, or share a random thought. The key here is to start small and let your audience get to know you beyond the polished posts. You’ll feel less pressure, and as you keep posting, you’ll grow more comfortable.

The beauty of Stories is that they disappear in 24 hours, so you don’t have to worry about perfection. This is your chance to experiment with new ideas, engage your audience, and get comfortable on camera. Over time, you’ll find your rhythm and be more confident in your ability to create and share content, especially in real-time situations.

Tip 2: Record Videos Without Posting Them

If you’re not yet comfortable showing your face on Instagram or creating videos, don’t worry! One of the best ways to build confidence is through practice, and you don’t have to go live right away to get started.

Actionable Tip: Record short, 15-30 second videos of yourself talking about your work, your life, or something relevant to your business. You don’t have to post them—just practice seeing yourself on camera. Review the footage, take note of what you liked, and look for areas where you can improve. This simple exercise will help you feel more comfortable being on video when it’s time to hit “publish.”

As you continue recording, you’ll begin to notice your confidence growing. And before you know it, those initial nerves will fade, and you’ll be creating high-quality video content that resonates with your audience. This tip is perfect for Instagram, where videos and reels are a major part of the content strategy.

Tip 3: Build a Content Strategy Around Authenticity

Consistency is key when it comes to social media marketing. To truly build a lasting presence on platforms like Instagram, you need a strategy that balances creativity with authenticity. That means it’s not about posting every single day—it’s about posting strategically and consistently showing up as your true self.

Actionable Tip: Create a content plan that reflects your business values, your expertise, and your personality. This doesn’t mean you need to post just for the sake of posting. Instead, focus on creating a content calendar that aligns with your goals and gives you space to be authentic.

For example, share a mix of educational content, behind-the-scenes glimpses, client testimonials, and personal stories. These diverse content pillars will not only keep your Instagram feed interesting but will also allow you to show up consistently without stressing over perfection. Remember, progress over perfection will always lead to better results.

Tip 4: Engage and Celebrate Your Wins

The more you engage with your audience, the easier it will be to show up confidently. Social media is a two-way street, so take the time to reply to comments, respond to DMs, and engage with your followers’ content as well. This will build a community that’s supportive and invested in you, which will make showing up feel more natural.

Actionable Tip: Celebrate your small wins along the way. Whether it’s your first Reel, a new follower, or an encouraging comment from your audience, these milestones help reinforce the progress you’re making. Share these wins on your Instagram, letting your followers see your growth and your journey.

By celebrating your progress, you’ll also inspire your audience to keep pushing toward their own goals. And as your community grows, your confidence will grow with it. So, don’t hold back—share your wins, engage with your audience, and keep building that confidence!

Tip 5: Be Real, Not Perfect

In 2025, the key to growing your business on Instagram and other social platforms is authenticity. Confidence isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being real and showing up consistently. Remember, the more you practice, engage, and embrace imperfection, the more your confidence will grow—and so will your business.

Don’t wait for perfection to strike—start taking action today, and let your unique voice and story shine through. Your audience is waiting for you to show up as your true, authentic self. Let’s make 2025 the year you stop chasing perfection and start thriving in your authenticity.

Learn all 10 tips on the podcast

Want to dive even deeper into building confidence and growing your social media marketing presence in 2025? 

Listen to the latest episode of Call Her Creator, where I discuss these tips and share even more insights to help you boost your confidence as a creator. 

Tune in now to get actionable advice that’ll help you level up your Instagram game!

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And don’t forget—follow @thekatelynrhoades on Instagram for more expert tips, strategies, and behind-the-scenes content to help you grow your business and build a lasting, authentic brand. Let’s connect and start showing up real, not perfect!

Instagram Algorithm Secrets: The Top Mistakes Hurting Your Growth

Instagram’s algorithm can feel like a mysterious beast. One day, your post is getting tons of likes and comments, and the next, crickets. If you've ever wondered why your Instagram game isn’t taking off as you’d hoped, chances are you’re making a few common mistakes that are holding you back from success. Whether you’re a creator or entrepreneur trying to grow your business, the roadblocks are real. But don’t worry! We’re here to steer you away from these Instagram blunders and get you on track for some serious growth.

Mistake #1: Prioritizing Sales Over Value

It’s tempting to post endless sales pitches and promotions when you’re building a business on Instagram. But here’s the thing: Instagram isn’t a marketplace, it’s a social platform. You need to be providing value if you want to build a community and grow your brand. Too many entrepreneurs and creators make the mistake of bombarding their followers with sales content instead of focusing on educational, valuable, and engaging material.

Here’s the hard truth: people are tired of overconsumption. The endless barrage of products, services, and “buy now” messages is wearing them down. Your followers want more than just another sales pitch—they want to feel like they’re part of something bigger. Focus on building a community around your brand, not just pushing sales. Share insights, tips, and behind-the-scenes moments that are genuinely helpful. When you focus on creating content that adds value and fosters connections, the sales will follow naturally. This approach helps build trust and boosts long-term growth, while the constant sales pitches tend to turn people away.

Mistake #2: Ignoring the Power of Engagement

Let’s talk about engagement. Or, more specifically, the lack of it. The Instagram algorithm loves it when you engage with your audience and other accounts. It’s the secret sauce to boosting your reach and getting more eyes on your content. Yet, so many creators and business owners focus only on posting and forget to engage with others. Big mistake!

You can’t just expect the algorithm to do all the work. Comment on your followers’ posts, reply to comments on your own feed, and engage in meaningful conversations in your niche. This not only builds relationships but also helps the algorithm recognize that you’re an active and valued part of the Instagram community. Spend at least 30 minutes a day engaging with others—whether it's through commenting, liking, or sharing content. The more active you are, the more likely your content will appear in your followers' feeds.

Mistake #3: Failing to Optimize Your Reels Strategy

Instagram Reels are your ticket to faster growth—if you use them right. If you’re only posting static images or traditional videos, you’re leaving a lot of growth on the table. Reels are Instagram’s current favorite content type, and they get massive reach because the algorithm prioritizes them.

But just posting any old Reel won’t do the trick. You need to hook your audience in the first few seconds, because—let’s face it—attention spans are short. A powerful hook (like a question, a bold statement, or something eye-catching) is essential to get your viewers to stick around. Once you have their attention, deliver valuable content that keeps them watching. Whether it’s a tutorial, a behind-the-scenes look at your business, or a quick tip, make sure every Reel serves a purpose. Also, use trending sounds, hashtags, and captions to increase your chances of being discovered.

And speaking of Reels, there’s an exciting new update coming to the Reels editor soon. Instagram is finally adding something we’ve seen on other platforms: the ability to add text to your videos after recording. This is huge because it allows more flexibility in your editing process. Now, you can create content that’s even more engaging and optimized for your audience. Keep an eye out for this update—it’s going to make your Reels game even stronger!

Mistake #4: Weak Calls to Action (CTAs)

You’re posting awesome content, you’re engaging with your followers, and you’re even creating killer Reels. But are you asking your followers to take action? If not, you’re missing a huge opportunity. Calls to action (CTAs) are your chance to guide your audience toward the next step, whether it’s visiting your website, signing up for your newsletter, or buying your product.

A weak CTA is a kiss of death. If you simply say, “link in bio” or “DM me for more info,” you’re not giving your followers a compelling reason to take action. Instead, make your CTAs strong and clear. For example, instead of just saying, “Check out my new product,” try something like, “Want to know how this product will change your life? Click the link in my bio to learn more!” You can also encourage engagement by asking questions like, “Which tip did you find most helpful?” or “Tag a friend who needs to see this!” Clear, actionable CTAs will drive the engagement and conversions you’re after.

Focus on Informative Content, Not Just Sales

Instagram growth isn’t all about posting pretty pictures and hoping for the best. It’s about creating a strategy that combines valuable content, engagement, and consistency. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll position yourself for greater success on the platform. And remember: it’s not just about the algorithm; it’s about building real relationships with your audience. Focus on delivering value, interacting with others, and optimizing your Reels strategy, and you’ll see growth—both in followers and in sales.

So, let’s stop making these mistakes, start implementing these tips, and watch your Instagram presence grow stronger than ever!

How to Turn Your Instagram Likes Into Actual Sales: 6 Proven Techniques to Boost Conversions

Instagram is an essential tool for building your brand, connecting with your audience, and generating sales. But let’s face it, if you’re getting tons of likes and comments but not seeing any actual sales, you might be wondering if all your effort is paying off.

The good news? It absolutely can. With the right strategies, those likes can translate into revenue for your business. In this blog post, we’ll share six proven techniques that can help you turn those Instagram likes into actual sales.

1. Optimize Your Bio: The Link in Bio Hack

Your Instagram bio is prime real estate. It’s one of the first things potential customers see when they visit your profile, so it’s crucial to use it wisely. The most obvious use of your bio link is directing traffic to your website, but it can also be used to promote other assets like your affiliate links, landing pages, or even other social channels.

Why is this so important?
Instagram is a visual platform, and while users may like your posts or leave comments, the ultimate goal is to guide them to a place where they can make a purchase. Make sure you’re using that link in bio space effectively, whether it's pointing them to your website, a sale, or a lead magnet (more on that below!).

If you don’t have a website yet, don’t worry. Cross-promote your other social channels. For instance, if you have a Facebook page, include that in your bio link. This gives followers multiple ways to engage with your brand.

Pro Tip:
Consider switching out your bio link for a Stan Store, which allows for easy e-commerce integration. It’s visually appealing, super user-friendly, and provides a seamless shopping experience. I saw a significant boost in sales when I switched to a Stan Store, and you can try it free for 14 days using this link.

2. Lead Magnets: Offer Value, Collect Leads

When it comes to turning likes into sales, you need to give people a reason to follow through with a purchase. One of the best ways to do this is by offering lead magnets. These are valuable, free resources you give away in exchange for contact details (like an email address or phone number).

For example, if you’re in the real estate niche, create a guide titled “5 Essential Tips for First-Time Homebuyers” or “Best Neighborhoods for Families in [Your City].” Offer this content for free via a link in your bio, where visitors can sign up to download the guide. In return, you get their contact info, allowing you to nurture the relationship and eventually lead them down the sales funnel.

The key here is to target content offers that your audience finds irresistible and relevant. Once you’ve collected their information, you can start building a relationship through follow-up emails, DMs, or even personalized offers.

3. Engage Quickly: Customer Service on Social Media

The speed at which you engage with your followers can make all the difference. According to studies, 40% of consumers expect a response within an hour of sending a message on social media, and 35% are more loyal to brands that reply quickly. These stats prove that prompt engagement can boost customer loyalty and conversions.

Make sure you're not leaving your commenters or DMs hanging. Respond to comments on your posts as soon as possible, and always keep an eye on your direct messages. If you're running a business, don’t hesitate to assign someone on your team to manage responses if you’re short on time.

Quick Engagement Strategy:

• Reply to all comments on your posts.

• Send a quick thank-you DM to new followers.

• Engage in your niche’s Instagram stories and posts.

When people feel heard, they’re more likely to trust you—and ultimately, buy from you.

4. Sell Directly Through Instagram Stories

Instagram Stories have become one of the most effective ways to connect with your audience in real-time, and they’re a goldmine for driving sales.

Why Stories?
Over 58% of Instagram users say they've become more interested in a brand after seeing their Stories, and more than half of them visit a website and make a purchase directly after viewing a product or service in a Story.

The Best Part?
Instagram makes it easy to sell directly through Stories. You can use the Link Sticker to drive traffic to a landing page or product page, or better yet, integrate a service like Manychat to create automated DMs for people who reply to your Story. The key here is to show up consistently and authentically.

Engagement Tip for Stories:

• Show your face. People connect with people, not logos.

• Promote your products, services, or special offers.

• Use the DM Me sticker to create personalized conversations.

5. Influencer & Creator Marketing: Harness the Power of Social Proof

One of the most effective ways to amplify your reach—and drive sales—is by collaborating with influencers or creators in your niche. According to a study, 88% of consumers say they’ve been inspired by an influencer or creator to make a purchase. This is nearly a foolproof strategy to get your product or service in front of a new, engaged audience.

Search for influencers in your industry, and explore their content to see if their followers align with your target audience. You don’t always need to partner with high-profile creators. Micro-influencers can deliver amazing results with a smaller, more targeted audience.

Whether you collaborate on content or hire User-Generated Content (UGC) creators to promote your product, this type of marketing builds credibility and drives real sales.

6. Paid Ads: Boost Your Best Posts for Faster Results

If you’re looking for a more direct route to conversions, paid Instagram ads can help you boost your top-performing posts. When you pay to promote your content, you get access to more advanced targeting options, allowing you to reach the exact audience who’s most likely to engage with your products or services.

Where to Start?

• Go to your Professional Dashboard on Instagram.

• Check out your Top Posts to identify content that’s already performing well.

• Use Instagram’s targeting options (age, gender, location, interests) to define your audience.

If you're new to ads, start by boosting posts that already have high engagement. This way, you’re putting your money behind content that your audience already loves.

Wrapping It Up: Turning Instagram Likes into Tangible Sales

Turning Instagram likes into sales isn’t about obsessing over vanity metrics—it’s about building relationships, offering value, and creating a seamless path for your audience to purchase. By implementing these six strategies, you’ll be well on your way to leveraging Instagram as a powerful tool to grow your business and increase revenue.  

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The Posting Schedule That Got Me 173K Followers: My Proven Strategy for Social Media Growth

Building an Instagram following from scratch can feel like an uphill battle. Whether you're a new creator or have been grinding away for months, you’ve probably wondered how to break through that follower plateau. Trust me, I’ve been there! I’ve hit those milestones: 2K, 10K, 50K—each time wondering what I was missing. But after experimenting, tweaking, and fine-tuning my approach, I finally hit 173K followers. And today, I’m spilling the tea on the posting schedule that got me there.

This strategy doesn’t require expensive courses, gimmicks, or shortcuts. It’s about consistency, staying organized, and engaging with your audience in meaningful ways. I’m here to share the exact schedule and tactics that helped me scale my Instagram—step by step.

1. Consistency is Key: My Monday to Friday Posting Routine

First things first, consistency is the foundation of everything. When I started growing my Instagram, I realized that the key to staying visible and building trust with my audience was sticking to a regular posting schedule. For me, that meant posting Monday through Friday and consistently showing up every weekday without fail.

Here’s why this matters: posting regularly keeps your content in front of your audience, building trust over time. When you show up on a set schedule, people start expecting your content, and you’ll find it easier to build a connection with your followers. This is especially important in a world where attention spans are short and algorithms prioritize regular engagement.

By sticking to a Monday-to-Friday cadence, I avoided burnout while keeping my followers engaged with new content every day. It wasn’t just about quantity—it was about quality and predictability. Knowing my followers could count on seeing new content every weekday meant they were more likely to engage, share, and interact with my posts. And the more engagement I got, the more likely Instagram was to recommend my content to new users.

2. The Power of Content Pillars: Stay Focused, Stay Relevant

Now, posting every day is great, but you need to be strategic about what you’re posting. This is where content pillars come in. Content pillars are essentially your core themes, guiding your content creation. By having defined pillars, you can stay consistent with your message and ensure your content is always relevant to your audience.

In my case, I’ve crafted five essential content pillars that guide my posts. They’ve helped me stay on track and focused, especially when the pressure of constant posting started to feel overwhelming. Here are my five:

• Educational Content: Whether it’s tips, tricks, or how-tos, these posts help my audience learn something new.

• Behind-the-Scenes: I share snippets of my life, my work process, or even personal stories. This builds trust and connection with my audience.

• User-Generated Content: Featuring content from my followers or customers helps foster community and boosts engagement.

• Trending Content: I keep an eye on trending topics or viral memes and use them to stay relevant.

• Personal Stories: I open up about my own experiences, which humanizes me and allows followers to connect on a deeper level.

By posting within these five pillars, I ensure that my content is diverse, valuable, and appealing to a wide range of followers. If you’re not sure where to start, identify the 3-5 themes that align with your brand and mission. These will guide your content creation and ensure you always have a clear direction for your posts.

3. Timing and Frequency: Finding the Sweet Spot for Maximum Engagement

Once you’ve got your content pillars nailed down, the next step is deciding how often and when to post. While you don’t need to post every hour of the day, finding the right posting frequency and timing can make all the difference.

I posted once a day during the week, Monday through Friday, which gave me a consistent presence on my followers' feeds. But the key to success wasn’t just the frequency—it was the timing.

In my case, I found that posting between 8:00 AM and 11:00 AM (depending on the time zone of my target audience) worked best. Why? Because that’s when my audience was most active—right before they got busy with work or school. By catching them early in their day, I was able to get maximum engagement, which is crucial for organic reach on Instagram.

Instagram’s algorithm rewards early engagement, so if you can get your followers to engage with your content within the first few hours of posting, your post is more likely to be pushed out to a wider audience. Keep an eye on your insights to figure out when your audience is most active and try to post consistently around those times.

4. Leveraging Instagram’s New Updates: The Game-Changer of Longer Reels

Speaking of timing, one of the game-changing updates Instagram rolled out recently was the ability to create longer Reels—up to 3 minutes long. When I heard about this update, I was excited because it opened up so many new possibilities for my content. In the past, Reels were capped at 90 seconds, which sometimes didn’t give me enough time to get into the meat of what I wanted to share.

But with the ability to create longer Reels, I could provide more value-driven content, whether it was through detailed tutorials, in-depth product reviews, or even behind-the-scenes looks at my day-to-day life. Longer Reels also give you the opportunity to capture more engagement, and if your content is valuable enough, people are more likely to watch the full video, comment, and share.

What’s great about this feature is that it doesn’t just benefit creators—it also works for Instagram’s algorithm, which loves longer watch times. So, when you create Reels that keep your audience engaged for longer, Instagram is more likely to show your content to new people. The key here is to create quality content that not only entertains but also educates or inspires your followers.

5. Post-Engagement Strategy: How to Keep the Conversation Going

Finally, it’s not enough to just post content—you have to engage with your followers afterward. One thing I’ve learned over time is that engagement is a two-way street. After posting, I made sure to spend time responding to comments, answering DMs, and engaging with my followers on their content as well.

But here’s the trick: don’t wait for your followers to come to you—go to them! Spend time interacting with other accounts in your niche, liking their posts, commenting on their content, and sharing stories. The more you engage with others, the more likely they are to notice you and engage with your content.

One last thing: be sure to use Instagram Stories to continue the conversation. I use Stories to ask questions, run polls, and engage with my followers in real-time. It’s a great way to build relationships and keep the conversation flowing. And the more engagement you get on your posts and Stories, the more likely Instagram will push your content to a wider audience.

Consistency, Strategy, and Engagement—That’s the Winning Formula

To summarize, growing your Instagram to 173K followers didn’t happen overnight—it was the result of a consistent posting schedule, strategic content creation, and meaningful engagement. By following a Monday-to-Friday cadence, sticking to my content pillars, timing my posts strategically, and utilizing Instagram’s new features like longer Reels, I was able to build a strong, engaged community.

Now, I’m passing the torch to you. Try implementing these strategies, track your progress, and refine your approach as you go. The key is to stay consistent, provide value, and most importantly, keep engaging with your audience.

Your growth journey might take time, but with the right schedule and strategy, you’ll see results! 

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Top Social Media Marketing Tools to Streamline Your Strategy and Boost Engagement in 2025

Welcome to another exciting blog post, where today, we’re diving deep into the world of AI and automation tools to help you take your social media marketing game to the next level. If you’ve been following along with my podcast, Call Her Creator, you know I’m all about working smarter, not harder. Social media can be overwhelming—especially for entrepreneurs and creators—so why not use the right tools to streamline your efforts?

In this post, we’ll explore the top tools I personally use (and love) to save time, boost engagement, and elevate my content strategy. From creating captivating posts to automating interactions and analyzing data, these tools have completely transformed my workflow. Let’s dive in!

1. Paperturn: Elevate Your Content with Interactive Flipbooks 

In today’s world, presentation matters. Whether you’re showing off a new product, sharing a portfolio, or sending out a price list, a flipbook can be a game-changer for your business. That’s where Paperturn comes in. Imagine sending potential clients or leads a stunning, interactive flipbook that feels like a digital magazine. It's sleek, professional, and fun to interact with!

I personally use Paperturn to create our pricing and services guides. Not only does it look polished, but it also allows you to embed videos directly on the pages—talk about making your content stand out! Whether you’re in real estate, selling products, or offering services, this tool is perfect for making your offerings look professional and engaging.

Plus, you can share these flipbooks easily across social media, email, or even directly through a link. It’s one of my favorite ways to give people a personalized look into what we offer without the hassle of bulky PDFs. 

2. AnswerThePublic: Get Inside Your Audience's Mind

When you’re creating content for social media, you need to know what your audience is searching for. That’s where AnswerThePublic comes in—a free tool that reveals exactly what questions people are asking around your keywords. With social listening becoming more important than ever, this tool helps you get the insights you need to craft content that truly resonates with your followers.

Let’s say you’re in the beauty industry, and you want to create content that answers your audience’s burning questions. Simply enter a keyword like "skincare," and AnswerThePublic will generate a list of search terms based on real queries from platforms like Google and Bing. It’s one of my go-to tools for keyword research and understanding search intent.

By using AnswerThePublic, you’ll not only have a steady stream of content ideas, but you’ll also have the data to back them up. Whether your audience is just looking for information, researching products, or ready to make a purchase, AnswerThePublic will help you target your content more effectively.

3. Canva Templates from club enfluence

If you’re not using Canva yet, where have you been? It’s one of the most powerful and user-friendly tools I use every single day. Whether you're creating static images, social media graphics, or even video content like Reels, Canva makes it simple to produce professional-level designs without needing a degree in graphic design.

What many people don’t realize is that inside of Club enfluence, we provide you with custom made Canva templates- including Reels templates. With a few clicks, you can customize these engaging, on-brand videos that are ready to be shared across your social platforms. It’s perfect for those of us who aren’t designers by trade but still want our content to look top-notch.

For service-based creators, I highly recommend checking out the Club Enfluence membership, where we create personalized Canva templates—everything from carousels to Reels—so you never run out of content ideas. Plus, we provide weekly trendy Reels prompts and audio suggestions to keep you on top of the latest social media trends!

4. Stanley by Stan: Automate Your Content Creation 

If you're anything like me, you know how important it is to create consistently. But let’s be real—writing social media posts, emails, and even scripts for videos can be exhausting. That’s where Stanley comes in, a powerful AI tool from Stan that scrapes your social media accounts to help you generate content ideas and even create lead magnets.

Recently, I used Stanley to help create a beginner’s guide to UGC (User Generated Content). The tool can generate everything from step-by-step guides to TikTok scripts, saving you hours of work. You can ask Stanley to generate content tailored to your niche or brand—just like having a personal assistant dedicated to your social media marketing.

By integrating Stanley into my workflow, I can focus on engaging with my audience and building relationships, while the AI handles the heavy lifting of content creation. Talk about working smarter, not harder!

5. Metricool

Want to streamline your social media posting with one click of a button? Metricool is hands down, our favorite social media scheduler. On top of scheduling, we also use their AMAZING insights. I can look back and see my top performing content and posts in just a few steps.

Metricool is a comprehensive social media management and analytics tool that offers unique features to help individuals and businesses streamline their online presence. Here are the key reasons someone might want to use Metricool:

1. All-in-One Social Media Management

• Metricool consolidates your social media scheduling, analytics, and ad performance in one dashboard.

• You can plan, schedule, and post content across multiple platforms (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and even Google Business Profile).

Why It Matters: Saves time and eliminates the need to juggle multiple tools.

2. Advanced Analytics

• Get detailed insights into your audience, engagement rates, and growth trends.

• Track post-performance to see what’s working and refine your strategy accordingly.

Why It Matters: Helps you make data-driven decisions to grow faster.

3. Competitor Analysis

• Spy on your competitors’ performance, including their follower growth, engagement, and content strategies.

Why It Matters: Understand industry trends and uncover opportunities to stand out.

Streamline Your Social Media Marketing

Social media marketing doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By integrating these AI-powered tools and automation solutions into your daily routine, you can save time, increase efficiency, and most importantly, create more impactful content for your audience.

These tools are designed to help you work smarter, not harder. Whether it’s creating stunning visuals, generating content ideas, analyzing your performance, or automating your engagement, the right social media tools can help you manage your workflow and grow your online presence more effectively.

Now, I’d love to hear from you! Have you used any of these tools? Do you have any favorites I missed? Let me know over on Instagram at @thekatelynrhoades  or @callhercreator.

And hey, if you loved this post and want to hear more, make sure to subscribe to Call Her Creator on your favorite podcast platform. It’s your way of supporting the show—and you might even be featured in a future episode!

Until next time, stay creative and keep leveling up your social media strategy! 

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