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Explore every episode of the podcast Strut It: Bold Visibility through Instagram Marketing

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TitlePub. DateDuration
How to Automate Your Instagram Sales Funnel (Part 3)28 sept. 202600:41:16

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 Are you still telling people to click the link in your bio? Or maybe you are dropping your full URL into your caption? No judgment, but there is a much easier way to share your most important links with your audience. Today I am showing you how I leverage DM automation to turn Instagram comments and interactions into leads and sales. And I have a pretty freaking fabulous birthday surprise waiting for you at the end of today's episode. You are not going to want to miss it.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

  • 04:10 What DM automation actually is and why it is one of the most powerful tools in your Instagram marketing system
  • 06:59 How keyword automations work in practice and the exact setup Elizabeth uses for her free Instagram visibility jumpstart kit
  • 14:19 Why DM automation outperforms "link in bio" and how reducing friction leads directly to more sales
  • 18:37 What you can send through DM automation: lead magnets, product links, calendar links, podcast episodes, promo codes, and more
  • 23:17 The two funnel types every beginner should know: the simple link funnel and the email collection funnel
  • 29:30 Why you do not need thousands of followers or comments for DM automation to work for your business
  • 34:39 The birthday gift: introducing DMs to Dollars

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The Instagram Sales Funnel I Used to Build Two Six-Figure Businesses Without Paid Ads (Part 2)21 sept. 202600:30:55

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 Last week I kicked off this two-part series on the key to making money on Instagram by walking you through why most business owners are missing a clear path from their content to their offer. Today I am pulling back the curtain on the exact Instagram sales funnel I have used to build two six-figure businesses without spending a single dollar on paid ads. I am going to show you what this funnel looks like in practice, how to build it for your specific business, and what to do if you already have great content but it is still not converting.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

  • 03:14 The exact five-step Instagram sales funnel Elizabeth has used to build two six-figure businesses without paid ads
  • 09:28 How to choose the right lead magnet for your business and why most people pick the wrong one
  • 15:42 How ManyChat connects your content to your funnel automatically and why it is the most important tool in this system
  • 21:07 What to do in the first 48 hours after someone joins your email list and why this window matters more than any other
  • 27:33 The three places on Instagram where your offer should live and why most people only use one of them
  • 33:19 How to audit your current Instagram marketing in 20 minutes to find exactly where people are falling out of your funnel
  • 38:45 The mindset shift that ties the whole system together: you are not posting content, you are running a marketing system

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The Key to Making Money on Instagram (Part 1)14 sept. 202600:34:38

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I want to talk about something that I think is one of the most misunderstood parts of Instagram marketing for small business owners. People come to me all the time saying: I am posting, I have a great offer, I know my audience, so why is Instagram not making me any money? And what I have found, after coaching hundreds of business owners, is that the answer is almost never what they expect. It is not a better hook. It is not more reels. It is not a new trending audio. It is almost always one of two things: either they do not have a clear path for people to take from their content to their offer, or they have the path but they are not showing people how to walk it. Today I am kicking off a two-part series on the key to actually making money on Instagram. Not just growing followers, not just getting views, but turning your content into consistent revenue.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

  • WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE
    • 03:22 Why most business owners are missing a clear path from their content to their offer and what that costs them in revenue every single month
    • 07:45 What a customer journey actually is and how to map yours from total stranger to paying client
    • 13:10 The three types of content every Instagram account needs and why most people are only creating one of them
    • 19:38 How to use DM automation to turn your most popular content into an always-on lead generation system
    • 25:14 Why your call to action matters more than your hook and the most common CTA mistakes Elizabeth sees
    • 29:52 The Instagram profile audit: the five things your profile must do before any content will convert
    • 36:07 Your homework: map your own customer journey from first touch to paid offer in five steps

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Meta Ads for Beginners: When to Run Ads and When Not To with Jenn Possick07 sept. 202600:37:23

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If you have ever wondered whether you are ready to run Meta ads, or whether ads are going to save your business or just speed up your losses, today's episode is for you. I am sitting down with Jenn Possick, known as The Ads Maven, a Facebook and Instagram ads strategist who has been in this space since 2015. She has helped hundreds of coaches, course creators, and service-based business owners grow their email lists, fuel their launches, and attract more clients using paid ads.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

  • 05:17 The honest question every business owner needs to answer before running a single Meta ad and why Jenn will tell you to wait if you are not ready
  • 10:42 What it means to have a proven offer and why ads cannot fix a funnel that is not converting organically first
  • 16:08 The four things you need to have in place before Meta ads will work for your business
  • 21:33 What is actually working in Meta ads in 2026: lead generation ads, list building, and the Instagram DM ad format that is changing the game
  • 28:54 How organic Instagram content and paid Meta ads work together to create a marketing system that compounds
  • 34:11 The minimum budget Jenn recommends for small business owners who are just starting with ads
  • 40:22 The biggest mistakes business owners make when they start running ads too early or with the wrong expectation

ABOUT OUR GUEST: JENN POSSICK

Jenn Possick, known as The Ads Maven, is a Facebook and Instagram ads strategist, speaker, and consultant who has been helping coaches, course creators, and service-based business owners grow their email lists and attract more clients using paid ads since 2015. A former elementary school teacher, Jenn brings a step-by-step, easy-to-understand approach to an often overwhelming subject. She has helped clients generate masterclass sign-ups for as low as $1.89 per person and has worked with six and seven-figure business owners across multiple industries.

HOT REELS IS OPEN

Hot Reels is officially open for enrollment and this is the last time it will be offered at the current investment. Here is what is included:

  • Live coaching twice a month on Zoom
  • Weekly trending content idea with exact hook formulas and AI implementation workflows
  • Up to two pieces of content reviewed per week inside the private community
  • Active coaching support Monday through Thursday
  • A program capped at 20 business owners so Elizabeth knows your name, your business, and what you are working toward
  • A private bonus coaching session for everyone who enrolls during this launch

Current investment: $444 per month or $4,444 paid in full. This investment increases at the next enrollment.

Enroll in Hot Reels now

WORK WITH ELIZABETH MARBERRY

Follow Elizabeth Marberry on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook

Please be sure to rate, review and follow the show on Apple podcasts (or wherever you find your podcasts) so we can get this free value to other people who need it.

Why Most AI Content Fails at Sales with Molly Mahoney (And the Buyer Psychology Fix) 31 août 202600:58:11

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If you have been using AI to create content and it still is not converting into sales, you are not alone and you are not doing it wrong. You are just missing one crucial ingredient. Today I am sitting down with Molly Mahoney, known as The Prepared Performer, a digital marketing strategist who launched the world's first AI-focused content membership back in 2021, long before AI became everyone's favorite buzzword. She has built a seven-figure business entirely on organic content, she has had videos reach 39 million views, and she is one of the most brilliant people I know when it comes to blending AI strategy with genuine human connection.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

  • 05:14 What buying beliefs are and why they are the missing ingredient in most AI content strategies
  • 09:38 How to use AI to uncover the hidden objections and fears standing between your ideal client and a buying decision
  • 14:22 The awareness ladder: unaware, problem aware, solution aware, most aware and how to create content for each stage
  • 19:45 Why most business owners are only creating content for people who are already ready to buy and what they are missing
  • 26:03 How Molly uses ManyChat automation to move people through the awareness stages and into sales conversations
  • 33:17 The exact AI prompt framework Molly uses to train AI on buyer psychology before creating any content
  • 39:52 Why your weird is your superpower and how authenticity is what separates AI content that converts from content that just sounds good

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What 16 Years in Business Taught Me About Instagram, Coaching & Growth24 août 202600:38:48

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Today is a special episode. I am celebrating 16 years in business and I want to do something a little different. Instead of teaching you a strategy or walking you through a framework, I want to sit down with you the way I would sit down with a good friend over coffee and share the things I know now that I wish I had known sooner. The lessons that changed my business, my mindset, and honestly my life. We are talking about Instagram, we are talking about coaching, we are talking about what growth actually looks and feels like from the inside. And I am also sharing a very exciting announcement: Hot Reels is officially open for enrollment. This is the last time I will be offering it at this investment level.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

  • 02:47 16 years of business in 16 minutes: the pivotal lessons Elizabeth has learned about growth, visibility, and staying in the game
  • 08:14 Why your business can only grow as fast as you grow and the identity work that nobody talks about in marketing podcasts
  • 13:22 The moment Elizabeth almost quit Instagram and what she did instead
  • 17:55 Why investing in coaching has been the single biggest ROI decision in Elizabeth's business, every single time
  • 22:08 The Hot Reels enrollment announcement: what is included, what has changed, and why this is the last enrollment at this investment level
  • 28:36 What the next 16 years will look like and the vision Elizabeth has for her business and her clients
  • 33:14 A love letter to the business owner who is still figuring it out

HOT REELS IS OPEN

Hot Reels is officially open for enrollment and this is the last time it will be offered at the current investment. Here is what is included:

  • Live coaching twice a month on Zoom
  • Weekly trending content idea with exact hook formulas and AI implementation workflows
  • Up to two pieces of content reviewed per week inside the private community
  • Active coaching support Monday through Thursday
  • A program capped at 20 business owners so Elizabeth knows your name, your business, and what you are working toward
  • A private bonus coaching session for everyone who enrolls during this launch

Current investment: $444 per month or $4,444 paid in full. This investment increases at the next enrollment.

Enroll in Hot Reels now

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Descript (video editor) 

My Social Media Marketing Podcast Interview:

Listen 

Watch

Read: https://www.socialmediaexaminer.com/new-ways-to-expand-reach-and-engagement-on-instagram

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The Instagram Growth Formula Nobody Talks About (Part 5)17 août 202600:38:50

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Today I want to answer the question every entrepreneur quietly asks themselves: can I actually do this? I am introducing you to my Hot Reels graduate, Dani Alvarez. When Dani first joined Hot Reels, she did not know how to make a reel. She was not comfortable on camera. She did not know what a trending audio was, and she seriously questioned whether Instagram was ever going to work for her business. Fast forward one year later: she had grown her audience from around 1,800 to more than 22,000 followers, created multiple viral reels including one with more than 15 million views, and added over $100,000 in revenue to her business. This is not really a story about Instagram. It is a story about what becomes possible when you commit to mastering one skill long enough for it to change not just your marketing, but your confidence, your identity, and your business.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

  • 09:45 Why commitment is the biggest thing standing between where you are today and where you want to be
  • 10:44 Meet Dani Alvarez: beverage burro business owner, homeschool mom, and Hot Reels graduate who grew from 1,800 to 22,000 followers and added $100,000 in revenue in one year
  • 15:01 Dani in her own words: what it felt like the first time she got on camera and why she almost cried posting her first reel
  • 20:48 The 90-day plateau before the breakthrough: how Dani posted consistently for three months with almost no results before one reel hit six million views
  • 24:09 The unexpected opportunity Instagram created: how Dani and a business partner launched an entirely new coaching business for farm and beverage animal owners around the world
  • 27:36 How Elizabeth landed a live international TV segment on one of the biggest UK morning shows because a producer found her on Instagram
  • 30:28 The series wrap-up: five lessons, five client stories, one invitation


Links Mentioned:

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How to Make Money on Instagram Without Thousands of Followers (Part 4)10 août 202600:39:53

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If I could wave a magic wand right now and give you one of two things: tomorrow morning you wake up and your Instagram account has 50,000 new followers, or tomorrow morning you wake up with an additional $100,000 in revenue for your business. 

Which one would you choose?

Today I am sharing two stories that illustrate exactly what I mean, and I am answering the question every business owner is really asking: how does Instagram actually make me money?

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

  • 06:35 Why you do not need a huge audience to make serious money on Instagram and what actually determines whether followers convert into revenue
  • 08:26 Meet Martine: a Pilates studio owner with fewer than 1,000 followers who made $3,000 in a single day from two clients who had been quietly watching her content for months
  • 11:18 Meet Amber: a burnout recovery coach and former veterinarian who built a marketing system that turned her Instagram visibility into consistent leads and a $12,000 client
  • 15:57 The framework Elizabeth teaches inside Hot Reels: visibility leads to trust, trust leads to action, action leads to revenue
  • 21:22 How the $12,000 client found Amber, what the funnel looked like, and why it felt like the easiest sale she had ever made
  • 26:27 Why every interaction with your content is a deposit into the trust bank and how that compounds into predictable revenue over time
  • 31:05 Why you do not get an award for doing it by yourself and what Amber says about the real value of coaching and implementation

CLIENT SUCCESS STORIES

Martine
Martine owns a Pilates studio in Seattle. When her breakthrough moment happened, she had fewer than 1,000 Instagram followers. No viral video, no influencer status. Just a business owner who consistently showed up and shared content that resonated with her ideal Pilates client. Two potential clients reached out on the same day after quietly watching her content for months. Between those two sales, she generated $3,000 in a single day entirely from her Instagram marketing efforts.

Amber
Amber is a burnout and stress recovery coach and former veterinarian of 17 years who helps high achievers, creatives, and vet med professionals heal from burnout. When she came to Elizabeth, she was speaking to everyone and seeing no traction. Together they refined her messaging and audience specifically toward veterinarians, built out a masterclass funnel, and Amber closed a $12,000 client from the very first time she ran it. Since recording her podcast interview, she ran a second masterclass that drew over 150 sign-ups. The funnel is working.

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The Biggest Instagram Mistake That's Repelling Your Dream Clients (Part 3)03 août 202600:38:33

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Have you ever spent 20 minutes writing the perfect Instagram caption, carefully choosing every word, making sure you sounded knowledgeable, only to post it and hear crickets? 

Then five minutes later, someone posts a reel that feels almost ridiculously simple, and somehow it takes off. People are commenting, sharing it, booking with them. And you find yourself wondering: how is that content outperforming mine? Mine is so much more valuable. 

After coaching hundreds of entrepreneurs across dozens of industries, I've noticed something fascinating — the people with the most expertise are often the ones who struggle the most to communicate it. Not because they aren't brilliant, but because they've forgotten what it feels like to not know what they know. Today I'm sharing the story of my Hot Reels client Christa Rypins, and the messaging shift that completely changed how she creates content.


WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

  • 07:28 What the "curse of expertise" is and why the more experience you have, the more likely you are to fall into this trap
  • 10:55 Why people don't hire the smartest expert. They hire the person who makes them feel understood
  • 12:16 Meet Christa Rypins: chronic pain specialist, Hot Reels client, and the messaging shift that changed everything
  • 18:23 Why bite-sized educational tips aren't enough and the courage it takes to speak to the problem instead of the solution
  • 21:14 Your homework: how to find your next five hooks using the exact words of your ideal client
  • 25:45 The client who quietly watched Christa's content for months and what finally made her hire
  • 33:27 Three lessons to take away from Christa's story

 LINKS MENTIONED 


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Why Your Instagram Content Isn't Turning Followers Into Clients (Part 2)27 juil. 202600:33:07

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Have you ever looked at your Instagram and thought — I'm doing everything I'm supposed to do. I'm posting consistently, I'm showing my face, I'm making reels. People even comment that my content is helpful. So why isn't anyone actually converting into a paying client or customer? If that's you, you're not crazy and you're not alone. Today I want to challenge one of the biggest misconceptions floating around the online business world: that if you just create enough content, the sales will eventually come. And today I'm sharing the story of one of my Hot Reels graduates who learned that lesson firsthand. She went from feeling completely defeated by Instagram to getting 7x more reel views and attracting clients directly from her content. 


WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

  • 04:03 Why consistency alone isn't enough and the real reason content isn't converting into clients
  • 05:26 The most important question to ask before you film anything: what is the job of this piece of content?
  • 08:11 Meet Caroline Hull: podcast strategist, Hot Reels graduate, and someone who had the expertise but couldn't get Instagram to work for her business
  • 12:43 Why attention without clarity rarely becomes revenue and the four things your profile must communicate instantly
  • 18:43 Caroline's client story: thousands of podcast downloads, zero conversions and the content shift that changed everything
  • 21:33 Caroline's Hot Reels results: 7x reel views, increased engagement, and her highest revenue month since her brand pivot
  • 24:28 Why a million views on the wrong message produces less revenue than 5,000 views to the right person


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The Truth About Instagram Growth in 2026 (Part 1)20 juil. 202600:36:36

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If you posted content consistently for five straight months and your follower count barely moved, would you keep going? Would you keep showing up every week if it felt like nobody was watching? Today I'm sharing the story of one of my Hot Reels clients who did exactly that. She joined my program with about 2,500 followers and a totally dormant account she hadn't posted on for years. She spent the first few months of Hot Reels wondering if any of it was working. By the end of our year together, she grew to more than 70,000 followers. If you've ever felt like you're posting, trying, learning, showing up, and still wondering if Instagram is even worth it anymore for your business, this episode is for you.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

  • 01:36 What this new 5-part series is all about (real client stories, real strategies, real data)
  • 06:34 The yellow pages analogy: why Instagram is the greatest marketing opportunity small business owners have ever had
  • 13:41 The mindset that allowed me to post every day for over a year with little to no growth and keep going anyway
  • 17:21 Meet Asli Wade: seven-figure Etsy seller, handmade gift creator, and Hot Reels graduate
  • 22:27 The truth about what Asli's growth actually looked like — five months of almost nothing
  • 28:34 Why the viral reel revealed the foundation she spent months building, not the other way around
  • 30:02 Why I cap Hot Reels at 20 business owners and what close-proximity coaching actually changes


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Instagram Growth Secrets Every Business Owner Needs with Michelle Gifford13 juil. 202600:47:48

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I am so excited to bring on one of the leading Instagram strategists for business owners — Michelle Gifford. She helps six and seven-figure brands grow their audience, sell out their offers, and generate real revenue through Instagram. She's also a coach, agency owner, podcast host of The Social Strategist, and a mother of five proving every day that it's possible to build a thriving business without sacrificing what matters most. 

When I invited Michelle onto the show, I knew we'd be talking Instagram strategy. What I didn't expect was how deep we'd go into the mindset behind building a successful business on Instagram. Grab your notebook.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE 

  • 03:15 How Michelle went from teaching photography as a business to becoming one of the leading Instagram strategists for six and seven-figure brands
  • 05:07 The moment Michelle realized she wasn't growing on Instagram even though she was teaching it, and exactly what she changed
  • 07:30 Why sitting on the fence wastes more time and energy than just deciding to go all in
  • 08:23 How to use Instagram results as information instead of validation
  • 09:22 The two types of Instagram users every business owner needs to recognize and the decision point each of them faces
  • 10:19 Why Instagram now rewards the best content creators and why that's actually a gift
  • 11:17 The identity mindset shift required when you move from Instagram consumer to Instagram business owner
  • 16:20 What's working for organic Instagram growth right now: carousels, reels, and the share rate metric you need to watch
  • 18:44 The content test Michelle uses before posting anything: save it, share it, or watch all the way through
  • 20:59 How to keep people watching reels all the way through: layered hooks, visual movement, and ruthless editing
  • 22:21 How long your reels should actually be and why Michelle uses a "mini skirt" rule
  • 23:20 Why not all content has to go viral and how to separate attract, nurture, and sell content
  • 30:17 How Michelle runs a business and creates content with five kids, a dog, and two cats
  • 35:36 How Michelle uses AI including Claude Co-Work for competitor analysis and Instagram content research
  • 39:05 How Claude Co-Work opens a Chrome browser and analyzes Instagram accounts in real time
  • 41:00 How Michelle uses AI to automate daily social media news briefings and podcast guest thank-you emails
  • 41:52 Michelle's Descript workflow for podcast editing

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7 Ways I Use AI to Market My Business, Save Time, and Increase Revenue (Part 4)06 juil. 202600:25:53

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Today I'm pulling back the curtain and sharing seven ways I've been using AI behind the scenes every single week to market my business, generate leads, increase sales, and save hours of work. Because when I'm learning a new tool or strategy, I don't just want the theory. I want to see how someone is actually using it inside a real business. This is the final episode of our four-part AI series, and it's the most practical one yet.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

  • 00:44 Series recap — the biggest AI mistakes, using AI without losing your voice, and the AI Thought Partner document from Part 3
  • 05:18 Way #1: Creating speaker kits and media kits — how Claude designed a 3-page editorial PDF speaker kit in a fraction of the time
  • 08:32 Way #2: Reviewing and improving sales pages — how AI acts as a fresh set of eyes to spot blind spots, redundancies, and missed opportunities
  • 10:19 Why AI recommendations aren't always right — and why the thought leader seat always stays with you
  • 11:15 Way #3: Competitor analysis and positioning — using AI to understand the landscape without copying anyone
  • 13:59 Way #4: Repurposing the podcast into multiple marketing assets — how one transcript becomes a newsletter, LinkedIn post, Instagram stories, carousels, hooks, and more
  • 16:25 Way #5: Capturing ideas before they disappear — how Elizabeth uses the voice memo function on walks, in the car, and in the shower
  • 20:08 Way #6: Speaking proposals and pricing research — using AI to position pitches and research market rates
  • 21:55 Way #7: Supporting coaching delivery, client onboarding, and organization
  • 26:34 About the live workshop: Build Your AI Thought Partner

Links Mentioned:

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Please be sure to rate, review and follow the show on Apple podcasts (or wherever you find your podcasts) so we can get this free value to other people who need it.

The Marketing Asset That Saves Me 10 Hours/Week With AI (Part 3)29 juin 202600:24:12

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Today I'm sharing something that sounds a little boring on paper but has changed everything about how I use AI. It's not a funnel, it's not a sales page, and it's not a complex system. It's a single living document. And it has become one of the most valuable marketing assets I've built in the last two years. If you've ever felt like AI gives you generic, forgettable content, this episode is going to show you exactly why that's happening and what to fix in your strategy moving forward.


WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

  • 04:57 Why I built my AI Thought Partner document — and why it's more valuable than any funnel or sales page I've created
  • 06:24 The exhausting mistake most business owners are making with AI: starting from zero every single time
  • 07:49 What an AI Thought Partner document actually is — and why it's a living, breathing asset
  • 10:00 Category 1: High-level business overview — who you are, what you do, what makes you different
  • 11:51 Category 2: Your target audience — what keeps them up at 2am, what they desire, what they fear
  • 14:14 Why being a paid user of both Claude and ChatGPT means this document goes everywhere with you
  • 14:44 Category 3: Your offers — what you sell, who it's for, what objections people have before buying
  • 18:27 Category 4: Your brand voice — why a list of adjectives isn't enough and what to do instead
  • 19:24 Category 5: Your stories — your founder story, client wins, lessons learned, and the moments that shaped your perspective
  • 21:14 About the live workshop: Build Your AI Thought Partner

Links Mentioned:

WORK WITH ELIZABETH MARBERRY

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Please be sure to rate, review and follow the show on Apple podcasts (or wherever you find your podcasts) so we can get this free value to other people who need it.

How to Use AI Without Sounding Like Everyone Else on Instagram (Part 2)22 juin 202600:18:22

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Every reel, every caption, every time you show your face on camera — you're building something you can't fully see yet. You never know where all of this will lead until you get into action and start finding your voice.

This is part two of my four-part series on how to use AI to market and grow your business on social media without losing what makes you you. Last week I covered the three biggest AI mistakes small business owners make. Today I'm diving into the four things AI actually needs from you if you want your content to stand out instead of blend in.


WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

  • 01:19 Why Elizabeth is speaking to 150 people in Cincinnati — and what it proves about content compounding over time
  • 02:44 Why most small business owners are under-leveraging AI even though everyone is using it
  • 03:36 A quick recap of Part 1 — the three biggest AI mistakes (and how to avoid them)
  • 04:32 The missing ingredient in most people's AI content strategy: the human element
  • 05:00 Thing #1: Your stories — why your lived experience is the raw material of your brand
  • 06:52 Thing #2: Your opinions — where thought leadership actually lives
  • 09:34 Thing #3: Your client stories — what AI will never know unless you tell it
  • 11:50 Thing #4: Your perspective — the differentiator AI can't replicate
  • 13:44 Your homework this week: how to build your Story Vault in a Google Doc
  • 15:34 What's coming in Part 3 — the exact document Elizabeth built to train AI on her brand
  • 15:59 About the live workshop: Build Your AI Thought Partner


YOUR HOMEWORK: BUILD YOUR STORY VAULT

Open a Google Doc this week and create a document called My Story Vault. Add these four headings:

  1. Stories from my life (mistakes, wins, pivotal moments, childhood memories that connect to your work)
  2. Client success stories (transformations, results, things clients have said to you)
  3. Things I believe (your hot takes, opinions, frameworks, things you'd push back on in your industry)
  4. Questions my audience asks (the same questions you hear on sales calls, in DMs, in emails — every week)

Add five items under each heading. That's it. Once you start feeding this into your AI conversations, the quality of everything it creates for you will shift dramatically.

Links Mentioned:

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Everyone Has AI. Here's How to Stand Out Anyway. (Part 1)15 juin 202600:23:39

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Instagram is filling up with AI-generated content. And as more small business owners and creators start using these tools, one thing is becoming really clear — everyone is starting to sound the same. So how do you use AI effectively without losing what makes you you? That's exactly what we're tackling today. This is part one of a four-part series on how to use AI in your marketing as a small business owner. We're going back to the basics, laying the right foundation, helping you avoid common mistakes, and making sure you have what you need to stand out instead of blend in.

*INSTAGRAM UPDATE WORTH KNOWING

Instagram just rolled out the ability to reorder your grid posts. To access it, go to your profile, long press on any post, and select Reorder Grid from the menu that appears. You can then drag and drop your posts to change the order they appear on your public profile.

This matters because those first nine posts on your profile often determine whether someone follows you or not. My advice: don't overthink it and don't spend three hours rearranging your feed like it's a living room makeover. But do think strategically about what someone sees within the first five to seven seconds of landing on your profile, and make sure it's positioned to attract your ideal client or customer.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

02:17 Instagram update: how to reorder your grid posts and why it matters

05:24 Why we're in the "Summer of AI" and the perspective I'm bringing to this series

07:16 The real conversation happening around AI in 2026 (it's not "should I use it" anymore)

07:45 Why using AI is quickly becoming the baseline and what the actual competitive advantage is now

08:39 What AI-generated "slop" looks like and why it's hurting the people posting it

09:36 Why AI is making thought leadership more valuable, not less

10:33 Mistake #1: Waiting until you figure it out (the fear and avoidance trap)

13:50 Mistake #2: Using AI to replace your thinking instead of amplify it

15:37 Mistake #3: Giving AI zero context and why this is the biggest reason outputs feel generic

18:49 The mindset shift that changed everything: treating AI like a strategic thought partner

19:17 One action step to take this week: ask AI to interview you before it creates anything

20:39 About the live workshop: Build Your AI Thought Partner

Links Mentioned:

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Claude Co-Work, ChatGPT Carousels & the Future of Content Creation with Austin Armstrong08 juin 202600:48:19

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I am sitting down with Austin Armstrong, author of Virality, keynote speaker, founder of Syllaby AI, and someone who has generated billions of views across social media through short-form video strategy. 

We talked about what's actually working on Instagram in 2026  including how Austin uses trial reels to test content, his strategy for repurposing videos across platforms, and why collaborations are still one of the fastest ways to grow your audience organically. But we also went deep into AI. 

Austin shared how he's using ChatGPT's newest image generation update to create Instagram carousel posts in a fraction of the time, how Claude Co-Work is changing the way creators and business owners work with AI beyond just prompting, and how entrepreneurs can use these tools to simplify content creation without losing authenticity or personality. 

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

02:11 How Austin went from MySpace at 14 years old to becoming one of the leading voices in AI marketing

07:31 Why every CEO and founder should be building a personal brand and how it lets you pivot

11:24 Why consumers increasingly buy from people who share their belief systems

13:20 What's actually working on Instagram right now: Austin's top strategies for 2026

13:48 How Austin reposts top-performing content and why one repost just hit 600,000 views

15:13 The tool Austin uses to download Instagram videos without a watermark

16:13 Why collaborations are still one of the most underrated growth tools on Instagram (and how to add up to 5 collaborators per post)

19:24 How Austin uses trial reels to A/B test hooks before posting to his main feed

25:32 How Austin is posting 3 times a day on Instagram — and how AI makes that possible

25:59 The exact process for using ChatGPT Image 2.0 to create Instagram carousel posts in minutes

31:11 What Claude Co-Work actually is — a plain-English breakdown for beginners

39:46 All about Syllaby — the AI video creation and scheduling tool Austin founded

Links Mentioned:

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How I Use AI to Reverse Engineer Viral Hooks (Part 3)01 juin 202600:16:54

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Today I'm pulling back the curtain on how I'm using AI in my business to reverse engineer viral hook formulas, generate stronger content ideas, and speed up my content creation process without losing personality or authenticity in my marketing. This is part three of our hooks and messaging mini series, and it might just be the most practical episode of the bunch.


What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

01:43 Why this hook series has been about so much more than just text on screen

02:07 How I run two businesses simultaneously — The Wedding Dance Coach in Denver and my Instagram marketing brand

04:20 The #1 mistake business owners make when using AI for content creation

05:16 What a Master AI Brand Book is and why building one changes everything about your AI outputs

06:43 The simple strategy I use to reverse engineer viral hook formulas with AI

07:40 How to study Instagram content like a marketer, not a consumer

08:34 Exactly what to say to ChatGPT or Claude when you upload a viral hook screenshot

09:55 How to prompt AI to generate 10 hook variations using your brand voice

11:16 Why AI is your strategic thought partner not your replacement

13:36 Hot Reels client results: from 2,000 to 70,000 followers, and six figures added in revenue

15:20 Next week: Austin Armstrong on AI, marketing, and growing to almost 1 million Instagram followers

Links Mentioned:

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The 4-Part Hook Formula Behind Viral Reels (Part 2)25 mai 202600:18:19

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You already know that strong hooks are one of the biggest things separating content that gets ignored from content that gets watched, shared, and remembered. But today I want to take this a step deeper because most business owners think a hook is only the text at the beginning of a reel. And honestly, that's just one piece of it. There are actually four different places you can hook someone inside of one piece of content. And once you understand this, you'll start seeing viral content completely differently.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

01:56 The reel Elizabeth posted that hit 86,000+ views and the content strategy lesson inside it

03:18 Why timely, relatable content outperforms polished educational content (and how to use this in your business)

07:06 Hook #1: The text hook — why specificity beats everything

09:22 Hook #2: The visual hook — why most people process your visuals before they read a single word

10:43 Hook #3: The audio hook — your opening words, tone, pacing, and music choice all count

13:42 Hook #4: The caption top line — the most overlooked hook placement of all four

15:06 How to use all four hooks together to create content that stops the scroll AND drives business results

16:52 Next week: how Elizabeth uses AI to reverse engineer viral hooks

Links Mentioned:

- Free DM Automation Guide + 1 Month of ManyChat Free:DM me the word LEADS on Instagram @elizabethmarberry

- Free Monetize Your IG Guide

- Hot Reels (my 12-month Instagram content lab)

- Missed Part 1? Ep117: The Secret to Stronger Instagram Hooks

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The Secret to Stronger Instagram Hooks (part 1)18 mai 202600:18:17

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If your brain feels a little overloaded right now, you are absolutely not alone. So many business owners are trying to keep up with content, trends, and algorithms while also running their actual business, life, and family. And I think a lot of us are over-complicating Instagram.

This is part one of a mini series on hooks, messaging, and what's working on Instagram right now.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

01:46 How speaking at Social Media Marketing World in Anaheim and the Wedding Show Producers International Conference came directly from consistent Instagram content

04:31 Why hooks are the #1 thing entrepreneurs are struggling with right now

05:26 What a hook actually is and why it's not manipulation or clickbait

06:48 The biggest hook mistake business owners are making in 2026: being too vague

07:17 A real before-and-after hook example: from generic to scroll-stopping

08:44 The four things strong hooks do: create curiosity, speak to pain points, challenge beliefs, and create emotional resonance

10:35 The questions you're asking about your content that are actually distractions

11:02 Why messaging (not camera quality or editing) is what changes your results

11:30 Hot Reels client Cathy: how one hook-driven reel hit 20,000 views in 24 hours

13:13 A teaser for next week: the four places you need to be hooking your audience (it's not just the text on screen)

14:38 Your homework: audit your last 9 posts for hook specificity

LINKS MENTIONED:

- Free DM Automation Guide + 1 Month of ManyChat Free: DM me the word LEADS on Instagram @elizabethmarberry

- Free Monetize Your IG Guide

- Hot Reels (my 12-month Instagram content lab)

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The Fastest Way to Grow on Instagram: Get in Front of New Audiences (Part 3)11 mai 202600:15:19

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We made it to part three of our three-part mini series on underrated Instagram growth strategies for 2026 and I saved two of my absolute favorites for last. In Part 1 we talked about growing without posting more. 

In Part 2 we covered how to create content that spreads. Today we're talking about how to get your brand in front of an entirely new audience — one strategy happening on Instagram and one happening completely off the app. These are two of the most overlooked growth moves I know, and I cannot wait for you to run with them.


WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

  • 01:48 Strategy 7: Instagram Collab Posts — the most underutilized feature for getting in front of new audiences fast
  • 02:46 The biggest mistakes businesses make with collabs (and how to avoid them)
  • 04:35 How to find the right collaboration partner — audience alignment, account size, and niche fit
  • 05:04 Real-world collab examples: Pilates studio + local coffee shop, real estate agent + mortgage broker
  • 07:49 Strategy 8: Speaking, workshops, and in-person networking — why real-life visibility drives the highest quality Instagram growth
  • 09:17 How my speaking career directly correlated with spikes in my Instagram following
  • 10:37 How to invite people to follow you in real life (and why you must always ask)
  • 11:06 Why DM automation is the perfect backend system for in-person networking
  • 11:35 Your homework: one action to take this month


LINKS MENTIONED

🎙️ Missed the earlier episodes? Part 1 (Ep114) | Part 2 (Ep115) 

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How to Create Instagram Content That Gets Seen, Shared & Reposted (Part 2)04 mai 202600:18:55

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Last week we talked about how to grow your account without posting more — strategic commenting, leveraging your warm audience, and repurposing your content. Today we're going deeper into the content itself. If your posts are consistent but not getting shared, reposted, or reaching new people, this episode is going to be a game changer. I'm sharing three strategies, including a newer Instagram feature you should absolutely be using and a simple tool that turns the content you're already creating into more followers. 

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

  • 02:30: POV-driven content — why having a clear point of view is the #1 thing separating brands that grow from brands that get ignored in 2026
  • 04:26: A real-world example of POV content that got 77,000 views for an independent record store
  • 08:37: How to use Trial Reels as a safe space to test bold opinions before posting to your main grid
  • 09:08: Creating shareable and repostable content — why reposts are one of the fastest growth tools on Instagram right now
  • 11:00: How to create content for a cold audience (not just the people who already know you)
  • 13:46: DM automation — how it drives engagement, reach, and growth all at once
  • 15:37: How comments triggered by DM automation increase your content distribution

LINKS MENTIONED

NEXT EPISODE

Part 3 is coming next week and it's one of my favorites. I'm sharing strategies that work off of Instagram to grow your account. It has nothing to do with posting more content. Make sure you're subscribed so you don't miss it!

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3 Underrated Instagram Growth Strategies That Still Work in 2026 (Part 1)27 avr. 202600:14:55

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This episode kicks off a brand new three-part mini series all about underrated Instagram growth strategies that are working right now for small businesses and marketers who want to get seen and paid.

Over the course of this series, I'm teaching you eight different strategies. My encouragement is to pick one or two that feel aligned, test them, and build from there. Let's grow sustainably, not frantically.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

  • 03:38 Strategy 1: Strategic commenting — why thoughtful comments on other people's posts can grow your following without posting more
  • 07:18 Strategy 2: Inviting your existing warm audience — the most overlooked growth move that costs nothing
  • 09:45 Strategy 3: Repurposing your own content — why your best posts deserve more than one chance
  • 10:40 How to use the Edits app analytics to find your top-performing reels and bring them back
  • 11:08 Why most content is only 1-5% off — and what that means for your strategy
  • 12:04 Your homework: one simple action to take this week

LINKS MENTIONED

- Free Monetize Your IG Guide: elizabethmarberry.com/freebies

- Hot Reels (my 12-month Instagram content lab): elizabethmarberry.com/hot

- Follow Elizabeth on Instagram: @elizabethmarberry — DM me the word LEADS for my free DM Automation Guide + 1 month of ManyChat free

- Edits App by Instagram: available on the App Store

NEXT EPISODE

In Part 2, I'm breaking down why your content isn't reaching the right people even if you're posting consistently. I'll show you exactly how to position your content so your ideal clients actually share, send, and repost it. Make sure you're subscribed so you don't miss it!

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From Avoiding Instagram to Signing Clients with Christa Rypins | Hot Reels Success Story20 avr. 202600:44:30

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I'm sitting down with one of my beloved Hot Reels clients, Christa Rypins — a chronic pain relief specialist, Franklin Method practitioner, and former professional figure skater — to pull back the curtain on her incredible transformation. 

When Christa first came into Hot Reels, she was dealing with deep resistance to showing up online. Marketing her business felt emotionally overwhelming and, at times, completely shut her down. Now? She's signing clients directly from her Instagram content, and that one client covered her entire investment in Hot Reels.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

  • 00:15 Why emotional resistance to posting is more common than you think and how to move through it
  • 27:56 How Christa went from complete shutdown around marketing to signing a client whose investment covered her entire Hot Reels enrollment
  • 24:42 The messaging mistake most experts make (and how Christa fixed it)
  • 19:54 Why Instagram marketing is a long-term play and what "30 leads in 30 days" actually looked like for Christa
  • 30:16 How DM automation (ManyChat) turned her content into a lead funnel
  • 36:11 What it's like inside Hot Reels — straight from a client who's been in it for 18 months

Links Mentioned:

"If you want to grow, get support. If you want to stay stuck, don't get support." — Christa Rypins 

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Why You Keep Overthinking Your Content (and How to Break the Cycle)13 avr. 202600:16:27

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If you’ve been struggling to show up consistently on Instagram, this episode reveals the real reason why—and it’s not your strategy! I'm breaking down the hidden visibility block that keeps business owners stuck, overthinking, and invisible: imposter syndrome.

You’ll learn how this shows up in your content, why it has nothing to do with your capability, and how to move through it so you can finally post with confidence, get seen, and get paid.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

00:00 Why you’re inconsistent even when you “know what to post”
01:38 Why strategy alone won’t fix your content struggles
02:36 How imposter syndrome blocks visibility and growth
06:19 The hidden ways fear shows up as procrastination
08:12 Why discomfort is actually a sign of expansion
09:11 How your nervous system affects content creation
10:38 Why your story is your biggest advantage
11:33 The real reason you’re not posting consistently
12:32 How to move through fear and take action anyway

Links Mentioned:

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What’s Working for Business Owners On TikTok In 2026 With Mike Yanda06 avr. 202600:49:20

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If you think TikTok is just dancing and trends, this episode will change how you see the platform. In this conversation, Mike Yanda breaks down how coaches, consultants, and service providers are using TikTok to generate real revenue. 

He shares the exact content strategy and simple funnel that helped one client generate over $75,000 in a single month. 

This is about building a system that converts TikTok views into clients.

PS: Mike and I met because we are both speaking at Social Media Marketing World this April. Get your ticket to the conference and come hang out with us in person. 

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

00:00 Why TikTok is still one of the easiest platforms to grow

07:03 The biggest myths about TikTok and who it is for

08:00 What content actually works on TikTok in 2026

15:04 The “model, validate, personalize” framework explained

22:43 Why consistency beats perfection every time

26:08 The simple content-to-client funnel that drives revenue

27:07 How to turn views into leads and sales

44:59 How to use TikTok and Instagram together for growth

48:25 First steps to start and what to focus on as a beginner

Resources & Links:

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This ChatGPT Prompt Will Optimize Your Instagram Bio (and Get You More Followers)30 mars 202600:17:06

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If your Instagram bio isn’t turning profile visitors into followers or clients, this episode is your fix.

In this solo episode, you’ll learn exactly how to transform your bio into a 24/7 conversion tool using a simple AI prompt you can implement today. You can have viral content—but if your bio doesn’t convert, you’re losing clients every day.

This episode walks you step-by-step through the exact prompt, structure, and strategy to fix it fast.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

  • 00:00 — Why your bio might be losing you clients
  • 03:02 — The role of your bio in a recommendation-based algorithm
  • 05:19 — The 3 must-have elements of a converting bio
  • 07:42 — Introducing the AI prompt strategy
  • 08:11 — The CRIT framework explained
  • 10:05 — How to use AI to interview you for clarity
  • 11:30 — Generating high-converting bio options
  • 12:58 — Free resource to optimize your bio
  • 14:28 — Using AI to grow your Instagram strategically

Links Mentioned:

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An Instagram Strategy That Signed a $12K Client With Dr. Amber Parks (Client Success Story)23 mars 202600:59:03

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Can Instagram actually lead to high-ticket clients without cold DMs or complicated funnels?

In this episode of Strut It, I sit down with private client Dr. Amber Parks to break down exactly how she signed an almost $12,000 client using a simple organic Instagram strategy and a masterclass she launched in just two weeks.

This is a real behind-the-scenes look at what changed—from unclear messaging and stagnant growth to a clear niche, stronger content, and a sales process that actually converts.

If you’ve been posting consistently but not seeing results, this episode will show you what might be missing—and how small shifts can create big momentum.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

  • 00:00 — The $12K client story (what actually happened)
  • 00:55 — What changed in 5 months of coaching
  • 12:02 — The real problem: unclear audience + messaging
  • 14:52 — The fear of niching down
  • 19:07 — Posting consistently but seeing no results
  • 23:24 — Small tweaks that changed everything
  • 26:39 — Why cold DMs didn’t work
  • 33:32 — The masterclass that converted into a client
  • 38:10 — Why storytelling drives sales

Links Mentioned:

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A Proven Workflow for Instagram Growth and Revenue with Brock Johnson16 mars 202600:53:02

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Today I’m joined by Instagram strategist Brock Johnson, and we go deep into the systems, workflows, and mindset that allow him to create hundreds of pieces of content each month while still running a full business.

Brock shares how he batches content, how he separates idea generation from filming and editing, and how he decides what to delegate to his team. We also explore how Instagram content actually connects to leads and sales, including the different roles Reels and Stories play inside your marketing funnel.

You’ll also hear Brock’s take on DM automation in 2026, why many small business owners accidentally make Instagram harder than it needs to be, and the one metric that matters more than most people realize.

What You’ll Learn

03:11 – How Brock landed an interview with the CEO of Instagram

10:26 – Brock’s weekly workflow for producing massive amounts of content

12:20 – Why batching content prevents burnout for business owners

14:15 – The content creation system that makes consistency easier

20:51 – Why talking-head videos often drive more qualified leads

27:27 – The biggest mistake business owners make when selling on Instagram

30:19 – The difference between Reels and Stories in your sales funnel

34:38 – Creative ways to use DM automation in 2026

42:37 – What your automated welcome DM should actually say

45:03 – The biggest misconception about growing on Instagram

48:19 – The metric that matters more than most people realize


Resources Mentioned

Follow Brock Johnson on Instagram

Join InstaClubHub

Join Social Media Marketing World

Grab Elizabeth’s Free Monetize Your IG Guide

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5 Instagram Growth Shifts That Took Me From 1K to 35K Followers09 mars 202600:24:33

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Have you ever felt like you’re doing everything “right” on Instagram and still seeing no growth?

In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on my own journey. I spent over a year stuck at 1,000 followers while posting reels every single day with almost no traction. Eventually, five specific shifts completely changed the trajectory of my growth.

Those same shifts helped me grow my personal brand to over 35,000 followers, scale my brick-and-mortar dance studio account to more than 60,000 followers on Instagram, and reach over 40,000 followers on TikTok.

What You’ll Learn

01:23 – Why growth on Instagram often takes longer than people expect

04:14 – The first shift that changed everything: making a clear marketing decision

06:33 – Why talking about too many topics confuses the algorithm and your audience

11:06 – How clarity around your niche unlocks growth and visibility

12:28 – Why speaking directly to your ideal client dramatically improves engagement

13:55 – The power of storytelling and specific hooks in your content

14:25 – What real consistency looks like (without burnout)

17:19 – Why hiring mentors can dramatically shorten your growth curve

Resources Mentioned: 

Monetize Your IG Guide

HOT REELS VIP WAITLIST

Hot Reels Full Program Details

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Instagram Trial Reels Update: What Changed and What To Do Now02 mars 202600:16:06

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Two weeks ago, I shared a trial reels strategy that was working beautifully.

In real time, Instagram adjusted.

In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly what changed, what it means for your content, and how to adapt without spiraling. I’m also answering your questions straight from my DMs, including how to know if a trial reel is actually performing well and how to duplicate content the right way.

But this episode is bigger than a feature update.

I’m sharing a powerful lesson from Olympic gold medalist Alysa Liu that completely reframes how we approach Instagram. Because the real key to sustainable growth is not gaming the algorithm. It’s how you hold your worth while you create.

What You'll Learn:

01:33 – Why Instagram shut down the duplicate trial reel loophole

02:51 – What trial reels actually are and how they differ from regular reels

04:42 – Why reposting the same reel within days will now get flagged

06:06 – How to know if your trial reel is truly performing well

08:27 – The exact way to duplicate a reel inside Instagram drafts

09:51 – Why you should always save your videos to your camera roll

10:46 – The Olympic mindset shift that changes how you approach content

13:07 – How to build a repeatable rhythm that survives algorithm updates

Resources Mentioned: 

Monetize Your IG Guide

HOT REELS VIP WAITLIST

Hot Reels Full Program Details

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YouTube vs. Instagram: The Simple Funnel Every Business Needs in 2026 with Jamar Diggs23 févr. 202600:43:50

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I sat down with YouTube marketing strategist Jamar Diggs to talk about how coaches, consultants, and service providers can use long-form video as a strategic top-of-funnel engine. This is not about going viral. This is about visibility that converts.

Jamar breaks down the difference between content created for views and content created for leads. He shares how to build an organic YouTube funnel. We also talk about how YouTube and Instagram can work together to build trust faster and move people toward buying.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

02:07 – Why YouTube is powerful for business owners (not influencers)
09:11 – The shift from corporate marketing to building your own lead engine
10:34 – How showing up authentically unlocked more alignment and income
13:21 – Why niche clarity matters on YouTube
16:44 – How evergreen YouTube content becomes a long-term asset
17:38 – What an organic YouTube sales funnel actually looks like
20:49 – The role of lead magnets in converting YouTube viewers
21:48 – The difference between attraction platforms and community platforms
25:29 – The mindset shift business owners must make about YouTube
30:29 – What it really takes to get started (without burnout)
32:22 – Why every video needs a clear call to action

Key Takeaways:

YouTube is not about going viral.
It is about being discoverable. You are not competing with influencers. You are positioning your expertise.

Search-based content is powerful.
YouTube is the second largest search engine in the world. When someone searches for a solution, your content can meet them at the exact moment they need help.

Evergreen content compounds.
Videos you post today can generate leads years from now.

Every video is an asset.
Each piece of content should guide viewers to a next step, typically a lead magnet that moves them into your email ecosystem.

Long-form builds authority. Short-form builds proximity.
YouTube establishes depth and trust. Instagram builds connection and conversation. Together, they create momentum.

Links Mentioned:

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Instagram Updates 2026: Trial Reels Strategy and New Hashtag Limits16 févr. 202600:16:39

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Instagram is shifting again, and I’m breaking down exactly what you need to know so your content performs and converts.

In this short, actionable episode, I’m sharing three key updates that can directly impact your reach, engagement, and sales:

• A smarter way to use Trial Reels without killing your momentum
 • The new hashtag limit and what actually matters now
 • A simple authenticity shift that could completely change your results

What You’ll Learn

  • 01:40 - How Trial Reels actually behave after 24 hours
  • 05:54 - Why “share to everyone” might be hurting your traction
  • 09:08 - The new 5-hashtag rule and how to choose the right ones
  • 09:34 - Why hashtags are no longer the main discovery tool
  • 10:32 - How Instagram now understands your content without 30 tags
  • 12:24 - The real reason raw, imperfect content performs so well
  • 14:18 - A faster way to create content without overthinking

Resources Mentioned: 

Monetize Your IG Guide

HOT REELS VIP WAITLIST

Hot Reels Full Program Details

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How to Build Trust and Show Up with Confidence on Social Media with Chelsea Peitz09 févr. 202600:45:52

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Showing up online can feel vulnerable, awkward, and emotionally exhausting.
If you have ever questioned your confidence, your relevance, or whether social media is even worth it anymore, this episode is for you.

In this conversation, I’m joined by Chelsea Peitz, keynote speaker, author, and one of the most thoughtful voices in personal branding and human-centered marketing. We talk about why visibility feels so uncomfortable, what is actually happening in your brain when you post online, and how social media has quietly shifted from connection to consumption.

What You’ll Learn

00:00 – Why showing up online feels vulnerable and emotionally charged for most creators
 02:19 – How Chelsea accidentally built a personal brand without trying to be an influencer
 07:30 – Why the brain builds trust through screens the same way it does in real life
 10:24 – The most common limiting beliefs that stop people from posting consistently
 18:35 – How Instagram shifted from connection-based content to entertainment and discovery
 21:54 – Why traditional engagement metrics are no longer reliable indicators of success
 27:55 – How long-term growth comes from consistency, relationships, and not quitting
 33:57 – Why Instagram works best as a relationship-building tool rather than a content machine

Key Takeaways

  1. Visibility is not neutral and often triggers fear and self-doubt.
  2.  Your discomfort with social media is a human response, not a personal failure.
  3.  Trust can be built through a screen when communication is human and consistent.
  4.  Engagement has changed because people consume content like television.
  5.  Silent viewers still build connection over time.
  6.  Traditional metrics can undermine confidence and motivation.
  7.  Creating your own success metrics builds self-trust.
  8.  Long-term growth comes from relationships and consistency, not trends.

Resources Mentioned

Follow Chelsea Peitz on Instagram
Chelsea’s book on human-centered communication

Free Resource: Monetize Your IG Guide

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Your Complete 2026 Instagram Strategy: What to Stop, Start & Focus On (Part 4)02 févr. 202600:33:10

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 Instagram does not need to feel chaotic anymore. In this final episode of my 2026 Instagram trends series, I bring everything together. I share a grounded roadmap for building a sustainable Instagram strategy that drives visibility, trust, and sales without burnout. I walk you through what to stop doing, what to focus on instead, and how to create content that actually supports your business goals in 2026. 

What You’ll Learn in This Episode 

00:00 – Why Instagram feels overwhelming and how to simplify your strategy
 01:21 – The leadership lesson that reshaped how I think about connection
 04:16 – A recap of the three biggest Instagram shifts happening right now
 05:36 – What to stop doing in 2026 if you want sustainable growth
 06:06 – Why chasing trends hurts long-term trust and conversions
 07:32 – Why every piece of content needs a clear job
 08:53 – Why views do not equal sales
 10:47 – Why depth beats being everywhere at once
 11:44 – Why posting at 80% good enough is a growth strategy
 12:43 – The mindset shift that creates real confidence on Instagram
 13:38 – Why human-first content wins in an AI-driven world
 15:33 – Why community matters more than follower count
 17:54 – How social search is changing Instagram marketing
 19:52 – Why conversation-based marketing is the future
 21:21 – How to use AI without losing your voice
 23:12 – Your simple three-month Instagram action plan for 2026
 29:17 – Why trust will be the ultimate currency moving forward

Resources Mentioned: 

HOT REELS VIP WAITLIST

Hot Reels Full Program Details

Free Close Sales in Your Sleep, DM Automation Guide: 

Get your First month FREE of ManyChat Pro. 

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Turn Instagram Followers Into Paying Clients in 2026 (Part 3)26 janv. 202600:30:04

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 Getting views does not guarantee sales. I see this every single day. In 2026, trust matters more than ever. In this episode, I break down what actually turns followers into paying clients. I explain the trust recession. I show you the difference between attention and connection. 

I teach you the three specific areas where depth drives real revenue. 

You’ll Learn:

00:00 – Why attention and sales are two different things
01:20 – Why most content does not connect to a real sales funnel
04:37 – What the trust recession is and how it changes buying behavior
05:36 – Why hype, urgency, and discounts are losing power
07:01 – Why proof and clarity beat promises
08:57 – Why people buy people, not products
09:25 – How little time you have to capture attention
11:15 – Why attention is rented and depth is owned
11:42 – The three areas where depth actually drives sales
12:10 – Why captions convert warm audiences
13:08 – Why carousels are a hidden growth and conversion tool
14:33 – The carousel data most creators are ignoring
15:29 – How to structure carousels for authority and leads
17:17 – Why consistency of perspective builds trust
19:57 – Why your customer journey must be clear
20:48 – How Elizabeth uses content to drive podcast growth
23:09 – How to choose the right call to action for each post
24:27 – Why DM automation is the real conversion engine
24:56 – How ManyChat turns content into leads on autopilot
26:46 – How to use DM automation in feed posts and stories

Resources Mentioned

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How to Stand Out on Instagram Without Burning Out in 2026 (Part 2)19 janv. 202600:33:21

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In this episode, we talk about how to stand out without burning out. We cover the shift away from generic content. We explore the rise of story-driven and mission-led marketing. We talk about how to grow your visibility in a way that feels human, sustainable, and aligned with your real life.

You will learn why playing the long game matters. You will learn how to use storytelling to stand out in a crowded market. You will learn how to use AI as a strategic partner instead of a replacement. You will learn why personal branding is now non-negotiable. You will also learn how DM automation connects your content to real leads and sales.

What You’ll Learn

00:05 – Why consistency with intention beats posting everywhere
06:13 – Why Instagram growth is a long game
09:04 – Why generic content is forgettable
10:02 – Why story-driven content is winning right now
11:27 – How to use storytelling to create connection and trust
19:22 – Why your brand needs a human face in 2026
21:33 – How direct-to-camera content builds authority
22:55 – How mission-led content creates loyalty and community
24:46 – How niching down makes your marketing stronger
13:44 – How to use AI as a strategic thought partner
15:32 – The CRIT framework for better AI results
26:59 – How to use DM automation to connect content to your funnel
28:28 – How ManyChat helps you grow your list on autopilot
27:58 – Why visibility without conversion is a trap
30:52 – The three big takeaways for your 2026 content strategy


Resources Mentioned

HOT REELS VIP WAITLIST

Hot Reels Full Program Details

Free Close Sales in Your Sleep, DM Automation Guide: 

Get your First month FREE of ManyChat Pro. 

Learn the CRIT framework that takes you into the top 1% of AI users

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Instagram Marketing Trends & Predictions for 2026 (Part 1): Why Instagram Feels Harder Right Now12 janv. 202600:30:51

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Instagram feels harder than it used to. Your views might be down. Your reach might feel inconsistent. Your content might feel like it is disappearing into the void.

This is not your fault.

In this Strut It episode, I kick off a four part series on Instagram Marketing Trends and Predictions for 2026. I break down what is actually happening on the platform using real data from two massive studies that analyzed more than 44 million posts and nearly 2 million accounts.

You will learn why reach is down, why competition is up, and why this shift is secretly the best opportunity small businesses have had in years.

What You’ll Learn

 00:00 – Why Instagram feels harder right now
 03:02 – What two major studies reveal about reach, Reels, and competition
 08:10 – Why more content means less average reach
 09:27 – How the algorithm has shifted toward recommendations and DMs
 12:21 – Why small accounts are growing faster than big ones
 16:06 – What resonance over reach really means for your business
 17:01 – Why views and income are not the same thing
 15:09 – How I grew my business by 300 percent with lower average views
 20:11 – Why niche content now beats broad content
 20:41 – How shareable content wins in 2026
 24:00 – Why community matters more than ever
 24:56 – Why Reels still matter and how to think about them differently
 25:51 – The three strategic takeaways you need to focus on this year 

Resources Mentioned

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Why Your Marketing Strategy Needs a Rethink in 2026 (Beyond the Funnel) with Becca Pountney 05 janv. 202600:47:46

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Marketing in 2026 looks nothing like it did even a few years ago. The traditional funnel assumes people move in a straight line from awareness to purchase. That assumption no longer holds.

In this Strut It episode, I sit down with internationally known marketing consultant, speaker, and educator Becca Pountney. Becca works primarily in the wedding industry, but her strategies apply to every business and every niche.

We unpack why attention is harder to earn, why trust is harder to build, and why customers now take multiple paths before buying. Becca introduces her Marketing Theme Park concept and walks through her S.C.R.E.A.M. framework, a practical way to rethink visibility, pricing, experience, and conversion in today’s landscape.


What You’ll Learn

[00:00] Why the traditional marketing funnel is outdated

[01:32] How the marketing theme park reflects modern buying behavior

[02:28] What it actually means to stand out in a crowded market

[04:44] Why transparent pricing builds trust faster

[07:05] How word-of-mouth still cuts through digital noise

[08:59] Why experience now drives conversions

[09:29] How to capture attention in a short attention economy

[21:46] Why customers need multiple ways to buy from you


Key Takeaways

  • Visibility alone no longer converts
  • Differentiation matters more than perfection
  • Clear pricing builds confidence
  • Small experience upgrades create big impact
  • Attention is earned in seconds
  • Simplicity increases sales
  • Customers choose their own buying path

Guest Bio

Becca Pountney is an internationally recognized marketing consultant, speaker, and educator. She is the UK’s leading wedding industry marketing expert and the host of the award-winning podcast Wedding Pros Who Are Ready to Grow. Her work helps business owners simplify marketing, increase visibility, and build sustainable growth in a noisy digital world.

Links and Resources

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5 Business Lessons I Wish I'd Known Sooner (From My 300% Growth Year)29 déc. 202500:32:26

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As 2025 comes to a close, I pause to reflect on what this year truly taught me about business, visibility, and growth. Instead of another strategy-heavy episode, I share five unexpected lessons that reshaped how I think about success, consistency, and confidence as a business owner and leader.

These lessons did not come from viral moments or overnight wins. They came from staying in the game, planting seeds, and learning how trust, safety, and clarity compound over time. My hope is that this episode helps you feel steadier, more grounded, and clearer about what deserves your energy moving into 2026 and beyond.

This episode is an invitation to put the yardstick behind you and recognize how far you have already come.

What You’ll Learn

[00:00] Why this episode is a reflection, not a strategy lesson
[02:32] Putting the yardstick behind you and measuring real growth
[04:55] Lesson one: Why trust outperformed virality in my business
[09:14] How Instagram stories became my strongest conversion tool
[11:36] Lesson two: The work I resisted most expanded my future
[15:42] How the podcast created growth I could not predict
[17:31] Lesson three: Why safety matters more than hustle
[21:49] Lesson four: How visibility grows when you stop performing
[26:02] Lesson five: Why consistency is about staying the course
[29:18] Final encouragement for anyone feeling behind or tired

Key Takeaways

  • Trust builds businesses faster than chasing attention.
  • Long-term consistency creates compounding visibility.
  • Resistance often signals meaningful growth ahead.
  • Safety supports sustainable success better than hustle.
  • Authenticity outperforms perfection in visibility.
  • Growth happens beneath the surface before it becomes visible.

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$30K with Under 1K Followers: Kelly Leardon’s Secret to Scaling with Systems, Not Stress 22 déc. 202500:44:01

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Have you ever finished a full workday feeling exhausted but unsure what you actually accomplished?

In this episode of Strut It, I sit down with Kelly Leardon, certified Director of Operations and founder of Walk Like Warriors. We talk about why traditional time management systems fail entrepreneurs and what actually works instead.

Kelly breaks down her signature approach to theming your week, building rhythms that support focus, and reducing the mental load that keeps business owners stuck in constant busy mode. We also dive into how she generated over $30,000 from a single launch using Instagram Stories with fewer than 1,000 followers.

What You’ll Learn

[00:00] Why feeling busy does not mean you are productive
 [00:27] Kelly’s approach to theming your week
 [02:01] Why entrepreneurs struggle with traditional time management systems
 [06:21] Why decision fatigue drains your energy and momentum
 [07:15] The real cost of task switching and constant notifications
 [13:24] Why theme days work better than task batching
 [15:16] Kelly’s play, rest, and work philosophy
 [25:54] How Kelly sold over $30,000 with a small Instagram following
 [27:17] Why Instagram Stories build trust faster than posts
 [29:40] A simple Monday through Friday Instagram Stories selling framework
 [33:25] Why you do not need a large following to make sales
 [36:05] The importance of clear calls to action
 [38:51] Kelly’s final advice on designing a business you actually want

This Week’s Challenge

Choose one theme day for the upcoming week. Commit to it fully. Notice how your focus, energy, and clarity shift when you stop task switching and work in rhythm. Then share one takeaway from this episode in your Instagram Stories and tag Elizabeth and Kelly.

Guest Bio:

If you’ve got a brilliant brain but 47 tabs open - Kelly’s your girl. She's a business coach and strategist who teaches overwhelmed entrepreneurs how to manage their time and turn their chaos into calm with simple, no-fluff systems that stick. Kelly's superpower? Turning “hot-mess energy” into laser-focused action with simple, proven strategies for the ambitious-but-exhausted business owner.


Links and Resources

  • Learn about the Success Squad with Kelly HERE 
  • Join the VIP Success Squad Waitlist HERE
  • If you want {FREE!} daily business coaching Monday-Friday in Instagram Stories, click here 
  • If you love {FREE!} tools, trainings, & templates to run your business smarter, click here 

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5 Instagram Growth Hacks For Your 2026 Marketing Strategy15 déc. 202500:27:21

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If your Instagram growth feels stuck or you are posting without a clear direction, this episode gives you clarity fast. I break down the five Instagram growth hacks that are helping small business owners grow their accounts, tighten their messaging, and get more eyes on their work. Each strategy is simple. Each strategy is doable. Each strategy is relevant to your 2026 plan.

I also share how these principles work inside Hot Reels, my high-touch content lab for business owners who want clarity, confidence, and a repeatable system that drives real results.


What You’ll Learn

[00:00] Why your Instagram growth feels stalled
 [00:26] Five simple growth strategies that work in 2026
 [07:16] Growth hack #1: Target market research
 [12:52] Growth hack #2: Narrow your focus
 [16:43] Growth hack #3: Trial Reels
 [21:19] Growth hack #4: Remixes
 [23:38] Growth hack #5: Talking head videos and stories
 [25:22] How Hot Reels supports you year-round


Key Takeaways

  • Your audience responds when you use their exact words.
  • Clear focus helps the right followers see themselves in your message.
  • Trial Reels remove guesswork and speed up your growth.
  • Remixes help your reach when you add your own perspective.
  • Talking head videos deepen trust and connection fast.


Links and Resources

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Hook Your Ideal Client in 2 Seconds (Instagram Growth Secrets)08 déc. 202500:27:35

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Most people lose their ideal audience in the first two seconds of a video. That tiny moment determines whether someone keeps scrolling or thinks this message is for me. If your content feels ignored or flat, the issue usually starts with your hook.

If you want stronger engagement, better watch time, and more qualified leads from your content, this episode gives you the exact tools to make that shift.

What You’ll Learn

[00:00] Why the first two seconds decide whether your content works
 [00:29] The reason hooks fall flat and how to fix them
 [01:32] Why hook creation is a learnable skill
 [02:28] How clarity and brevity help your message land
 [03:49] The three hook strategies I teach inside Hot Reels
 [07:05] Real client wins that show what is possible
 [08:59] Why attention leads to conversions
 [09:29] How to write hooks that speak to your ideal clients
 [12:15] How to remove filler words and sharpen your messaging
 [13:41] Examples of hooks that activate the right audience
 [14:39] How to use your audience’s language when you write hooks
 [17:30] How to use client conversations to find better hook ideas
 [18:55] A simple hook structure anyone can follow
 [19:51] How pacing and editing keep viewers engaged
 [21:46] How movement, cuts, and angles strengthen your videos
 [22:17] Why implementation drives results more than information

Key Takeaways

  • You have two seconds to earn someone’s attention on Instagram.
  • Clear and brief hooks outperform long and complicated statements.
  • Your content resonates when you use the words your audience uses.
  • Strong pacing and simple edits help people stay with your message.
  • Small upgrades each week create major results over time.
  • Support and mentorship remove guesswork and speed up growth.

This Week’s Challenge

Choose one hook strategy from this episode. Use it in your next reel, story, or carousel. Keep it short. Make it clear. Use your audience’s exact words. Then post it without overthinking.

Links and Resources

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How She Made $100K from Instagram in Under 12 Months with Dani Alvarez (A Hot Reels Success Story)01 déc. 202500:48:56

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What if one year from now you could double your prices, expand your brand, grow your Instagram from under 2,000 followers to more than 22,000, and add more than $100,000 in revenue to your business.

That is exactly what happened for my client, Dani Alvarez.

When Dani and I first met, she was a homeschooling mom of three running a small farm in Northern Colorado and posting the occasional photo on Instagram. She did not know how to post a reel. She felt stuck and overwhelmed. She wondered if Instagram was even worth her time.

Fast forward twelve months, her videos have hit millions of views. Her business has transformed from the inside out. Her brand is clear, elevated, and profitable. And she has added an entirely new revenue stream because of her visibility on Instagram.

What You’ll Learn

[00:00] Dani’s growth from 1,800 to 22,000 followers
 [00:26] Why she almost quit Instagram
 [00:56] How we doubled her prices
 [03:20] How Sparrow Hill Beverage Burros began
 [07:05] When she saw she needed a real strategy
 [08:26] What we fixed before reels
 [09:21] Her first bride at the new rate
 [10:49] Learning reels for the first time
 [12:43] Daily reel commitment
 [14:38] Facing the fear of showing up on camera
 [15:58] Filtering out conflicting advice
 [17:20] The reality of the first ninety days
 [19:18] Her first viral reel
 [24:40] Visibility driving bookings and revenue
 [30:45] Unpredictable opportunities from social media
 [32:05] Dani’s advice on joining Hot Reels
[34:23] Why strategy plus encouragement transforms results

Guest Bio

Dani Alvarez is the founder of Sparrow Hill Beverage Burros and Friends, a Northern Colorado wedding and events business featuring highly trained mini donkeys and farm animals. She is a former elementary teacher turned entrepreneur who built her business from a small family farm while homeschooling her three children. Dani has grown her Instagram to more than 22,000 followers, added over $100,000 in revenue in one year, and now co-runs a global coaching program for farms wanting to add luxury beverage animals to their offerings. Her work blends hospitality, joyful experiences, and intentional brand storytelling.


Links + Resources

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Overthinking Your Content? Here’s How to Build Confidence on Instagram – Part 224 nov. 202500:23:56

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In this episode, I go deeper into the visibility work we started last week. I explore two blocks that show up for every entrepreneur I know: imposter syndrome and perfectionism. These patterns often present as hesitation, overthinking, procrastination, or feeling like you need everything perfect before you show up online. I share how they show up in life and business, how they have shown up in my own journey, and how you can move forward with confidence even when doubts and fears are present. I also talk about the power of DM automation and how it keeps your business running even when you step away from your phone.

What You'll Learn

[00:00] Why visibility work matters and why hesitation usually comes from deeper blocks
 [00:28] Introduction to imposter syndrome and perfectionism
 [00:59] My mission to help entrepreneurs get visible and monetize on Instagram
 [02:07] How DM automation allows your content to drive leads while you are offline
[03:03] How keywords in comments or DMs trigger links and next steps automatically
[08:43] How imposter syndrome signals growth rather than weakness
[10:12] The emotional journey leading up to speaking at Wedding MBA
[14:04] How perfectionism shows up through planning, delaying, and waiting
[15:00] How writing my book has challenged my own perfectionism
[20:30] Why sustainability matters more than hustling in every direction


Key Takeaways

  • Imposter syndrome and perfectionism are not signs that you lack readiness. They are signals that you are growing.
  • You do not need to eliminate doubt. You need to learn how to move forward with it.
  • Confidence comes from taking action, not waiting for perfection.
  • Visibility and results come from consistency, not flawless execution.
  • DM automation helps your business continue to sell and serve while you rest or focus elsewhere.

Links Mentioned

  • Try ManyChat Pro free for 30 days or by DMing me LEADS on Instagram
  • Join the Hot Reels waitlist or by DMing me HOT on Instagram

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The Real Reason You’re Afraid to Show Up Online (and How to Fix It) - Part 117 nov. 202500:21:41

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If people do not know you exist, they will not buy from you. It sounds simple, but visibility requires more than hitting publish on a post. It requires you to show up as your real self. It requires you to let your audience connect with your humanity. That means being honest. It means being a little messy in public. And that is where the fear kicks in.

In this week’s episode, I share the first two visibility blocks that keep entrepreneurs stuck, silent, or overthinking every word they publish. I walk you through fear of judgment and self doubt. I share stories from my own journey, from speaking on the biggest stage of my life to blocking real life people on Instagram so I could create freely again. You will learn how to find evidence that you do know what you are doing and how to support your nervous system as you grow.

This is part one of a two part series. Today we explore fear of judgment and self doubt. Next week we explore imposter syndrome and perfectionism.


What You’ll Learn

[00:00] Why you must be seen to be paid and why visibility requires honest humanity
 [00:29] Why sharing your struggles matters for connection and sales
 [00:58] How appropriate vulnerability builds trust with your audience
 [01:15] Why visibility feels scary and how to navigate those emotions
 [01:52] My prep for speaking at the Wedding MBA and how perfectionism shows up
 [02:46] Why caring deeply often looks like anxiety and high standards
 [04:07] How visibility triggers self reflection and inner growth
 [05:30] The first two visibility blocks you must understand
 [10:17] Understanding the self doubt block and where it comes from
 [16:53] What my clients seek in Hot Reels and why it works
 [17:50] How Instagram reflects your inner world and leadership
 [18:20] Why confronting your inner blocks creates long term success
 [18:46] How Hot Reels helps you build visibility, messaging, and funnels
 [19:11] Why you need an intentional content system that sells for you

Links and Resources Mentioned

Join the Hot Reels Waitlist: elizabethmarberry.com/hot. Get early access and bonuses when doors open in December.

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How Heart Leadership Fuels Business and Brand Growth with Anthony Lambatos10 nov. 202500:41:07

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This week, I’m talking with Anthony Lambatos, owner of Footers Catering and founder of MIBE (Make It Better Every Day), a leadership and culture organization helping people build heart-led, people-first businesses.

Anthony and his wife April have quadrupled their company’s revenue, achieved 50% higher employee retention than the industry average, and earned Best Places to Work honors eight years in a row. But the real story is how they did it, through heart leadership.

We unpack what heart-led leadership really looks like, why vulnerability and communication are the most powerful leadership tools, and how this philosophy applies whether you’re a CEO, a small business owner, or a team of one.

What You’ll Learn

[03:57] How Anthony went from family business to people-first CEO
 [05:45] The secret behind Footers Catering’s long-term success and retention
 [07:10] What heart leadership really means and why it matters now
 [10:00] Why everyone is a leader, no matter your title or team size
[13:44] How emotional intelligence builds stronger businesses and cultures
[16:29] The link between leadership, authenticity, and social media presence
[20:45] The four convictions of heart leadership: Lead, Love, Mibe, and Vibe
[24:35] How communication can transform culture and client relationships
[27:58] Why small, 1% improvements lead to exponential growth
[30:23] How to protect your culture and surround yourself with the right people
[35:00] What to expect from the 2025 MIBE Summit for hospitality leaders

This Week’s Challenge

This week, I challenge you to reflect on how you’re showing up as a leader in your business. Ask yourself: Am I leading with heart? Am I communicating clearly? Am I making small, consistent improvements every day?

Then share one way you’re committing to lead with more authenticity this week and tag me @elizabethmarberry, I’d love to celebrate it with you.


Links + Resources Mentioned

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The Instagram Growth Shift: Why Personal Content Wins in 2025 and Beyond03 nov. 202500:26:17

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If your content isn’t converting, it’s not your strategy, it’s your messaging.

In this Strut It episode, I’m breaking down one of the biggest shifts we’re seeing on Instagram right now: moving from generic to personal and specific content. The truth is, broad, how-to posts like “5 Ways to Grow Your Instagram” no longer perform. What’s working now are personalized, story-driven posts that speak directly to your ideal clients.

What You’ll Learn

[01:06] The biggest content shift happening on Instagram right now
 [03:56] Why specific, story-driven hooks outperform generic how-tos
 [05:44] The end of the “five tips” era and what to do instead
 [08:08] A real example from my business: how I grew 20,000 followers in 30 days
 [09:34] What Adam Mosseri says about shareable content and DMs
 [11:53] How to write posts that get shared—and why people share them
 [13:44] Coaching example: rewriting a burnout coach’s hook for clarity and impact
 [15:40] How to transform a generic idea into a personal, scroll-stopping hook
 [18:59] The difference between “I/me” hooks and “you” hooks (and how to use both)
 [20:53] A simple storytelling prompt to create relatable, magnetic content
 [22:20] How to get feedback and mentorship inside my Hot Reels content lab


This Week’s Challenge

Create one piece of content that feels personal and specific. It could be a Reel, carousel, or post that shares a true story or insight from your journey. Use the prompt: “What I wish I knew before…” and fill in the blank with a meaningful moment or decision from your business or life.

Then tag me @elizabethmarberry on Instagram—I’d love to see it and cheer you on.

Links + Resources Mentioned

Join the Hot Reels Waitlist: elizabethmarberry.com/hot — Get early access and bonuses when doors open in December.

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The Hidden Gap in Your Marketing That’s Costing You Sales with Heidi Thompson 27 oct. 202500:37:57

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If your content isn’t converting, it’s probably not because you need a new strategy, it’s because your messaging isn’t connecting.

In this episode of Strut It, I’m joined by marketing expert and wedding business strategist Heidi Thompson, the founder of Evolve Your Wedding Business and author of Clone Your Best Clients. Heidi breaks down exactly how to uncover what your audience really wants, thinks, and feels so you can write content that actually converts.

Whether you’re a wedding professional, creative, or service provider, you’ll walk away with practical tools to strengthen your message, attract the right people, and boost your ROI without reinventing your entire marketing strategy.

What You’ll Learn

[02:17] Why truly knowing your audience is the foundation of every great marketing strategy
 [03:45] The psychology behind effective marketing and what most business owners get wrong
 [05:35] The biggest mistake creators make when identifying their ideal client
 [08:27] Why old-school demographic worksheets don’t actually help you sell more
 [10:51] The “Clone Your Best Clients” method and how to identify your dream customers
 [14:36] The most effective way to get real audience insights (and it’s not guessing)
 [17:27] How to ask for and conduct client interviews that reveal the gold in your messaging
 [20:19] The key questions that uncover what truly drives people to buy
 [27:17] Why refining your messaging by just 5% can completely change your results
 [31:58] How to apply what you learn across your website, Instagram bio, and all content


This Week’s Challenge

I want you to identify one or two of your favorite clients. The people you wish you could clone, and reach out to them. Ask if you can hop on a short call to learn what really motivated them to work with you. Use their exact words in your next piece of content or Instagram post. You’ll be amazed at how it changes your results. Then DM me @elizabethmarberry and tell me what you discovered.

Links + Resources Mentioned

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Follow Elizabeth Marberry on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook

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Trial Reels: The Secret Instagram Growth Hack You’re Not Using Yet20 oct. 202500:18:40

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If you’ve ever spent hours creating a reel you thought would crush it, only for it to flop, this episode is for you.

I’m pulling back the curtain on one of my favorite Instagram growth hacks: trial reels. This is the exact method I use (and teach my clients) to A/B test hooks and uncover what kind of messaging actually stops the scroll, grabs attention, and converts.

I’ll also share how one of my clients tested three versions of the same reel and tripled her views just by tweaking the first line. You’ll walk away knowing exactly how to implement this in your own business this week.

What You’ll Learn

[01:15] Why trial reels are one of the most powerful (and underused) features on Instagram
 [02:11] What trial reels actually are and how to know if you have access to them
 [03:01] How I’m using trial reels to test hooks and grow faster
 [05:21] The story of how one client tripled her reach by changing three words
 [07:44] How trial reels help you A/B test your messaging—just like email subject lines
 [09:13] Real examples of viral hook testing you can try this week
 [10:12] When to use trial reels (and when not to) depending on your goals
 [12:07] The difference between attraction and promotional content
 [13:29] How to use trial reels differently for nurturing vs. growth seasons
 [14:54] Why perfectionists need trial reels the most
 [16:20] Your weekly action step: how to test your first trial reel and measure results

This Week’s Challenge

Post your first trial reel.
If you’ve already been using them, A/B test your hooks this week. Try posting the same video with different on-screen text and see which version performs best. When you get your results, DM me on Instagram @elizabethmarberry and tell me about your win. I’d love to celebrate with you.

Links + Resources Mentioned

  • Join the Waitlist: Hot Reels – My 12-month Instagram content lab for small business owners and creatives ready to grow visibility and sales.
  • Free Resource: Monetize Your IG Guide. Learn seven simple, proven ways to finally make money on Instagram.

WORK WITH ELIZABETH MARBERRY

Follow Elizabeth Marberry on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook

Please be sure to rate, review and follow the show on Apple podcasts (or wherever you find your podcasts) so we can get this free value to other people who need it.

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