110: The Weekly Scroll: Instagram Algorithm Update and Controls, Threads Communities + Meta Partnerships

Episode 110: The Weekly Scroll

Call Her Creator with Katelyn Rhoades
Date: December 18, 2025

Episode Overview

In this engaging episode of “Call Her Creator,” host Katelyn Rhoades is joined by her Director of Operations, Darby, for a real-time rundown of the most significant updates in the creator economy—mainly focused on Instagram’s algorithm changes, new community features on Threads, and Meta’s evolving approach to creator partnerships. The duo brings practical, relatable advice (from the perspective of both creators and moms working in the trenches) and offers actionable strategies to help creators and entrepreneurs adapt and thrive.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Instagram Algorithm Update: Changing How Views Are Counted

[03:43–07:19]

Background: Instagram has adjusted how it counts “views.” Now, views only register if someone actually taps on your post, not just if it appears on the Explore page or as someone scrolls past it.
- Katelyn: “Previously, if someone just saw your post… that was counted as a view, which I don’t think that’s accurate anyways.” (04:56)
Impact: Creators are seeing lower view numbers, but those numbers now reflect engaged viewers, not passive traffic.
- Darby: “It’s not such a vanity metric. Like, now it’s like, okay, I earned these views.” (05:12)
- This change helps creators accurately gauge what’s actually resonating with their audience, filtering out inflated numbers and revealing true engagement.
Takeaway & Advice:
- Don’t panic if your view count dips—it’s a more stringent, meaningful metric now.
- Focus on super strong hooks (first 1–2 seconds), optimized reel covers, and strategic content that earns curiosity and taps.

2. IGTV’s Return—Or Just Another TV App?

[08:31–11:29]

Announcement: Instagram is experimenting with a new TV app, reviving IGTV-like functions to mimic YouTube’s long-form video success.
Reaction: Both Katelyn and Darby are skeptical.
- Katelyn: “There is no data out there saying that it did have great traction, but what they’re doing is YouTube is having great traction with it…” (08:50)
- Darby: “I wouldn’t be shocked if it sticks around till March and then, like, fine, IGTV is gone.” (11:23)
Insight: Instagram is chasing a trend proven by YouTube’s dominance in TV streaming, but it may not fit their platform or creator ecosystem.

3. Threads: Expanding Communities & Trending Conversations

[12:09–18:24]

Usage Trends: Darby explains using Threads as a substitute for Twitter—especially for real-time commentary during shows like Dancing with the Stars and Love Island.
- Darby: “I use it for you for your threads. But…even though I don’t post on threads, I would go on there as I was watching Dancing with the Stars…” (12:14)
Update: Threads is now expanding topic-based communities, from 100 to 200+ interest groups, adding features like community champion badges and topic flairs.
- Katelyn: “Communities…making it easier for users to find people who care about the same topic…now they’re getting a little more specific.” (14:34)
Strategy: Identify 1–2 communities per brand, post consistently, use flairs to signal expertise, and focus on value—not just promotion.
- Katelyn: “Being recognized inside a niche community could drive faster trust and visibility, which we all need.” (16:34)
Opportunity: Product-focused brands, coaches, and personal brands all stand to gain—especially by joining and leading niche discussions.

4. Instagram Reels: User-Controlled Algorithm (Topic Selection)

[18:40–22:54]

New Feature: Users can now select or remove topics in their Reels feed—literally curating what they see (and what others see about them).
- Katelyn: “I do like the idea of picking my topics because I’m a very moody girly…would be nice to go in there and pick and choose.” (19:11)
Comparison with TikTok: Both agree TikTok’s algorithm feels “psychic”—this new feature is Meta’s attempt to catch up, allowing for even greater content targeting.
- Darby: “Sometimes I feel like [in] reels…for the trends, we look up certain niches…then for a month after that, all I’m seeing is roofing company.” (20:13)
Tips:
- Get hyper-specific with topics, both in video and metadata.
- Double down on clear content pillars for better algorithmic placement.
- Avoid random, off-pillar reels to stay categorized and grow a devoted audience.

5. Meta’s Creator Partnership Ads Expansion

[22:54–24:55]

Update: Meta is making it easier for brands/agencies to find and activate creator partnerships within the platform—integrating Instagram and Facebook in one dashboard.
- Katelyn: “I like the idea, like a faster way to get [permissions] over to them.” (24:05)
Benefits:
- Increased discoverability and easier management for creators and brands alike.
- Direct analytics and faster ad code permissions make it less of a “gray area” and more accessible for creators to monetize.
- Less reliance on third-party platforms that take a percentage cut.
- Darby: “Now it’s like…it’s already inside [the dashboard] so they can see my stats and I don’t have to send it to them…almost would prevent somebody from not wanting to do it because it is kind of…annoying sometimes.” (24:40)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

On the New Views Metric:
- Katelyn: “If 2,000 people click on your post, that’s huge. So it’s just adding more value to it…I personally like this update.” (05:14)
- Darby: “Now it’s not such a vanity metric. Like, now it’s like, okay, like, I earn these views.” (05:12)
On Hooks and Reels Strategy:
- Katelyn: “We’ve actually, you’ll see—research says three seconds. At the agency, we’re like, nope, a second and a half is all you have.” (07:26)
- Darby: “Being on the Explore page is still the goal… but you now want to not just land on it, but actually get clicks on it.” (06:16)
On IGTV’s Comeback:
- Katelyn: “YouTube is having great traction…I don’t want to sit with you and watch reels.” (08:58, 09:33)
On Threads Communities:
- Darby: “I do think it’s getting more like of a news channel…obviously I use it for like reality TV stuff.” (13:01)
On the New Reels Algorithm Controls:
- Darby: “TikTok reads my mind before I’m even interested in something…Meta’s still kind of behind the curve on that.” (19:37)
On Meta Partnerships:
- Katelyn: “It’s all third party. And then when you work with third party, they’re also taking a cut…” (24:34)
- Darby: “It is like almost would prevent somebody from not wanting to do it because it is kind of…annoying sometimes.” (24:55)

Trending TikTok & Instagram Reels (Fun Segment)

[25:18–27:22]

Sequencing Feature:
- Darby and Katelyn discuss the viral Jon Hamm meme trend and reveal how creators can use Instagram’s “sequencing” to remix reels directly in-app—something akin to TikTok’s “Stitch” function.
- Darby: “Now if you see like funny memes…you can sequence…If they have the right settings on, you can just sequence it.” (26:41)
- Katelyn: “Sequencing is really fun. It’s almost like remixing…It’s a great way to explain it to them.” (27:15, 27:22)

Timestamps for Major Segments

[03:43] – Instagram’s New View Count Metric and Takeaways
[08:31] – IGTV Returns; Katelyn and Darby’s Candid Reaction
[12:09] – Threads Community Features and Content Strategy
[18:40] – New Reels Topic-Control: User-Driven Recommendations
[22:54] – Meta Partnership Ads: Easier Monetization for Creators
[25:18] – Fun Trends: Sequencing, Meme Strategies & Tips

Actionable Takeaways

Get real with your metrics: Don’t be discouraged by lower views—measure what matters.
Invest in first-second hooks: That 1.5 second window makes or breaks performance now.
Test and join new Threads communities: Pick 1–2 key niches, participate with value, and post consistently.
Clarify your content pillars: Help the platforms (and your followers) categorize you easily.
Take advantage of new partnership hubs: For easier, data-driven brand collaborations.
Try sequencing on Instagram: Remix trending reels natively to boost engagement easily.

Closing Vibe

This episode delivers a warm, relatable look at the chaos and opportunity of real-world content creation. With a focus on clarity—and “data, data, data!”—Katelyn and Darby arm creators with direct, jargon-free advice, plus a healthy dose of fun and encouragement for working moms and solopreneurs everywhere.

“We’re just two moms over here working in social just like you…We see you, we feel for you, and we’re here in the trenches with you.”
— Katelyn Rhoades (03:09)

Episode 110: The Weekly Scroll

Call Her Creator with Katelyn Rhoades
Date: December 18, 2025

Episode Overview

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Instagram Algorithm Update: Changing How Views Are Counted

[03:43–07:19]

Background: Instagram has adjusted how it counts “views.” Now, views only register if someone actually taps on your post, not just if it appears on the Explore page or as someone scrolls past it.
- Katelyn: “Previously, if someone just saw your post… that was counted as a view, which I don’t think that’s accurate anyways.” (04:56)
Impact: Creators are seeing lower view numbers, but those numbers now reflect engaged viewers, not passive traffic.
- Darby: “It’s not such a vanity metric. Like, now it’s like, okay, I earned these views.” (05:12)
- This change helps creators accurately gauge what’s actually resonating with their audience, filtering out inflated numbers and revealing true engagement.
Takeaway & Advice:
- Don’t panic if your view count dips—it’s a more stringent, meaningful metric now.
- Focus on super strong hooks (first 1–2 seconds), optimized reel covers, and strategic content that earns curiosity and taps.

2. IGTV’s Return—Or Just Another TV App?

[08:31–11:29]

Announcement: Instagram is experimenting with a new TV app, reviving IGTV-like functions to mimic YouTube’s long-form video success.
Reaction: Both Katelyn and Darby are skeptical.
- Katelyn: “There is no data out there saying that it did have great traction, but what they’re doing is YouTube is having great traction with it…” (08:50)
- Darby: “I wouldn’t be shocked if it sticks around till March and then, like, fine, IGTV is gone.” (11:23)
Insight: Instagram is chasing a trend proven by YouTube’s dominance in TV streaming, but it may not fit their platform or creator ecosystem.

3. Threads: Expanding Communities & Trending Conversations

[12:09–18:24]

Usage Trends: Darby explains using Threads as a substitute for Twitter—especially for real-time commentary during shows like Dancing with the Stars and Love Island.
- Darby: “I use it for you for your threads. But…even though I don’t post on threads, I would go on there as I was watching Dancing with the Stars…” (12:14)
Update: Threads is now expanding topic-based communities, from 100 to 200+ interest groups, adding features like community champion badges and topic flairs.
- Katelyn: “Communities…making it easier for users to find people who care about the same topic…now they’re getting a little more specific.” (14:34)
Strategy: Identify 1–2 communities per brand, post consistently, use flairs to signal expertise, and focus on value—not just promotion.
- Katelyn: “Being recognized inside a niche community could drive faster trust and visibility, which we all need.” (16:34)
Opportunity: Product-focused brands, coaches, and personal brands all stand to gain—especially by joining and leading niche discussions.

4. Instagram Reels: User-Controlled Algorithm (Topic Selection)

[18:40–22:54]

New Feature: Users can now select or remove topics in their Reels feed—literally curating what they see (and what others see about them).
- Katelyn: “I do like the idea of picking my topics because I’m a very moody girly…would be nice to go in there and pick and choose.” (19:11)
Comparison with TikTok: Both agree TikTok’s algorithm feels “psychic”—this new feature is Meta’s attempt to catch up, allowing for even greater content targeting.
- Darby: “Sometimes I feel like [in] reels…for the trends, we look up certain niches…then for a month after that, all I’m seeing is roofing company.” (20:13)
Tips:
- Get hyper-specific with topics, both in video and metadata.
- Double down on clear content pillars for better algorithmic placement.
- Avoid random, off-pillar reels to stay categorized and grow a devoted audience.

5. Meta’s Creator Partnership Ads Expansion

[22:54–24:55]

Update: Meta is making it easier for brands/agencies to find and activate creator partnerships within the platform—integrating Instagram and Facebook in one dashboard.
- Katelyn: “I like the idea, like a faster way to get [permissions] over to them.” (24:05)
Benefits:
- Increased discoverability and easier management for creators and brands alike.
- Direct analytics and faster ad code permissions make it less of a “gray area” and more accessible for creators to monetize.
- Less reliance on third-party platforms that take a percentage cut.
- Darby: “Now it’s like…it’s already inside [the dashboard] so they can see my stats and I don’t have to send it to them…almost would prevent somebody from not wanting to do it because it is kind of…annoying sometimes.” (24:40)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

On the New Views Metric:
- Katelyn: “If 2,000 people click on your post, that’s huge. So it’s just adding more value to it…I personally like this update.” (05:14)
- Darby: “Now it’s not such a vanity metric. Like, now it’s like, okay, like, I earn these views.” (05:12)
On Hooks and Reels Strategy:
- Katelyn: “We’ve actually, you’ll see—research says three seconds. At the agency, we’re like, nope, a second and a half is all you have.” (07:26)
- Darby: “Being on the Explore page is still the goal… but you now want to not just land on it, but actually get clicks on it.” (06:16)
On IGTV’s Comeback:
- Katelyn: “YouTube is having great traction…I don’t want to sit with you and watch reels.” (08:58, 09:33)
On Threads Communities:
- Darby: “I do think it’s getting more like of a news channel…obviously I use it for like reality TV stuff.” (13:01)
On the New Reels Algorithm Controls:
- Darby: “TikTok reads my mind before I’m even interested in something…Meta’s still kind of behind the curve on that.” (19:37)
On Meta Partnerships:
- Katelyn: “It’s all third party. And then when you work with third party, they’re also taking a cut…” (24:34)
- Darby: “It is like almost would prevent somebody from not wanting to do it because it is kind of…annoying sometimes.” (24:55)

Trending TikTok & Instagram Reels (Fun Segment)

[25:18–27:22]

Sequencing Feature:
- Darby and Katelyn discuss the viral Jon Hamm meme trend and reveal how creators can use Instagram’s “sequencing” to remix reels directly in-app—something akin to TikTok’s “Stitch” function.
- Darby: “Now if you see like funny memes…you can sequence…If they have the right settings on, you can just sequence it.” (26:41)
- Katelyn: “Sequencing is really fun. It’s almost like remixing…It’s a great way to explain it to them.” (27:15, 27:22)

Timestamps for Major Segments

[03:43] – Instagram’s New View Count Metric and Takeaways
[08:31] – IGTV Returns; Katelyn and Darby’s Candid Reaction
[12:09] – Threads Community Features and Content Strategy
[18:40] – New Reels Topic-Control: User-Driven Recommendations
[22:54] – Meta Partnership Ads: Easier Monetization for Creators
[25:18] – Fun Trends: Sequencing, Meme Strategies & Tips

Actionable Takeaways

Get real with your metrics: Don’t be discouraged by lower views—measure what matters.
Invest in first-second hooks: That 1.5 second window makes or breaks performance now.
Test and join new Threads communities: Pick 1–2 key niches, participate with value, and post consistently.
Clarify your content pillars: Help the platforms (and your followers) categorize you easily.
Take advantage of new partnership hubs: For easier, data-driven brand collaborations.
Try sequencing on Instagram: Remix trending reels natively to boost engagement easily.

Closing Vibe

“We’re just two moms over here working in social just like you…We see you, we feel for you, and we’re here in the trenches with you.”
— Katelyn Rhoades (03:09)

wavePod

Summary

Episode 110: The Weekly Scroll

Episode Overview

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Instagram Algorithm Update: Changing How Views Are Counted

2. IGTV’s Return—Or Just Another TV App?

3. Threads: Expanding Communities & Trending Conversations

4. Instagram Reels: User-Controlled Algorithm (Topic Selection)

5. Meta’s Creator Partnership Ads Expansion

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Trending TikTok & Instagram Reels (Fun Segment)

Timestamps for Major Segments

Actionable Takeaways

Closing Vibe

Transcript

Summary

Episode 110: The Weekly Scroll

Episode Overview

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Instagram Algorithm Update: Changing How Views Are Counted

2. IGTV’s Return—Or Just Another TV App?

3. Threads: Expanding Communities & Trending Conversations

4. Instagram Reels: User-Controlled Algorithm (Topic Selection)

5. Meta’s Creator Partnership Ads Expansion

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Trending TikTok & Instagram Reels (Fun Segment)

Timestamps for Major Segments

Actionable Takeaways

Closing Vibe