Podcast Summary: Social Media Decoded
Episode: How to Fix Your IG Engagement in 2025: Real Strategies Anyone Can Use
Host: Michelle Thames
Release Date: July 28, 2025
Introduction to Instagram Engagement Challenges
Timestamp: [00:51]
Michelle Thames opens the episode by addressing a common frustration among Instagram users: declining likes and comments despite increased posting efforts. She empathizes with listeners, reassuring them that they are not alone in experiencing reduced engagement metrics. Michelle sets the tone for the episode by promising actionable strategies to navigate the evolving Instagram landscape in 2025.
Notable Quote:
"I'm here for the real talk. Zero fluff and easy wins."
— Michelle Thames [00:51]
Key Changes in Instagram Engagement Algorithms
Timestamp: [01:20]
Michelle delves into the significant shifts in Instagram's algorithm that have impacted user engagement. She outlines four primary changes that marketers and content creators need to understand to adapt effectively:
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Emphasis on Saves and Shares:
Instagram now prioritizes content that encourages users to save posts for later or share them with friends. This metric has become more influential than traditional likes and comments. -
Authenticity Over Perfection:
Audiences are increasingly valuing genuine, behind-the-scenes content over polished, perfect posts. Michelle shares her personal experience, noting that her behind-the-scenes reels have outperformed her other content. -
Demand for Value and Connection:
Users seek content that teaches, inspires, entertains, and fosters a sense of community. Michelle emphasizes the importance of providing tangible value in every post. -
Importance of SEO:
Optimizing captions, alt text, and usernames with relevant keywords is crucial for discoverability on both Instagram and Google search. Michelle cites examples of how strategic keyword use has boosted visibility for creators.
Notable Quotes:
"Instagram's algorithm is all about saves and shares."
— Michelle Thames [02:15]
"Authenticity wins over perfection."
— Michelle Thames [02:45]
"SEO absolutely 100% matters on Instagram."
— Michelle Thames [03:50]
Common Engagement Mistakes and Real-Life Examples
Timestamp: [05:19]
Michelle identifies three prevalent mistakes that hinder Instagram engagement, supported by real-life anecdotes from her listeners:
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Posting Without Connecting:
Michelle shares Brian's story, a listener who posted daily but rarely interacted with his audience. Once Brian began responding to comments and engaging directly through DMs and voice notes, his engagement and follower count saw a significant boost.Notable Quote:
"When he started responding with real answers, asking questions, or even just sending a voice note back to someone who DM'd him, his engagement and followers both jump because the people felt seen."
— Michelle Thames [05:30] -
Creating Non-Savable, Non-Shareable Content:
Jade, a friend running a cooking account, initially posted only aesthetically pleasing meal photos. By shifting to practical content like five-minute dinners and carousel recipes, her posts became more shareable and sparked real conversations. -
Ignoring Instagram's SEO Tools:
Darius, an artist, leveraged keywords and alt text in his posts, making his content discoverable through Instagram and Google searches. This strategy attracted new followers who found him via search rather than scrolling.
Notable Quote:
"If you're not sure what keywords to use, think about what your friends, followers or even you would search to find your content and put that in your next caption."
— Michelle Thames [07:15]
The Five-Day Instagram Engagement Fix
Timestamp: [08:00]
Michelle presents a structured five-day plan designed to enhance Instagram engagement. She encourages listeners to implement these steps and share their results:
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Day 1: Engage Through Stories
- Action: Ask a question, create a poll, or seek advice in your Instagram Stories.
- Example: Michelle shares a story about going to the gym and asks if her followers are staying active.
Notable Quote:
"Ask a question in stories, poll your followers or ask for advice."
— Michelle Thames [08:15] -
Day 2: Post a Carousel with Value
- Action: Share content that solves a problem, entertains, or inspires action.
- Example: A carousel featuring “three apps I use every day” or a “quick dinner recipe.”
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Day 3: Share Your Face
- Action: Post a reel or go live, sharing personal tips, wins, or challenges.
- Example: Even if nervous, showing a behind-the-scenes look or discussing a personal milestone.
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Day 4: Shout Out to Followers or Friends
- Action: Tag someone who engages with your posts or inspires you.
- Example: Acknowledging a follower who consistently interacts with your content.
Notable Quote:
"Tag someone who's engaged with your post, shared your stuff or inspired you."
— Michelle Thames [09:45] -
Day 5: Ask for Saves or Shares
- Action: Encourage followers to save your post for later or share it with friends.
- Example: Ending a post with, “If this helped, save it for later or share with a friend.”
Notable Quote:
"End your post with if this helped, save it for later or share with a friend."
— Michelle Thames [10:10]
Michelle urges listeners to diligently apply these steps and report back on their experiences through various channels, including Spotify comments, Instagram DMs, or Threads.
Additional Support and Resources
Timestamp: [10:55]
To further assist her audience, Michelle promotes her personalized Power Hour Strategy Sessions, which offer tailored audits of Instagram profiles, podcasts, or overall brands. She distinguishes these sessions from generic courses, emphasizing the bespoke, one-on-one support provided.
Michelle also highlights her free 7-Day Visibility Shift, a private audio experience delivering quick wins directly to subscribers' inboxes.
Notable Quote:
"This is not a course. This is you and me getting my eyes on whatever it is that you want in your business."
— Michelle Thames [09:30]
Conclusion and Call to Action
Timestamp: [11:20]
Michelle wraps up the episode by encouraging listeners to take action on the tips shared, share their successes, and engage with her through various platforms. She reiterates the importance of visibility and building a thriving online presence.
Notable Quote:
"Every share helps more people get visible, grow and thrive on their terms."
— Michelle Thames [11:00]
Key Takeaways
- Adapt to Algorithm Changes: Focus on creating content that encourages saves and shares, emphasizes authenticity, and provides clear value.
- Engage Actively: Connect with your audience by responding to comments, engaging in DMs, and fostering real conversations.
- Optimize for SEO: Use relevant keywords in captions, alt text, and usernames to enhance discoverability.
- Implement the Five-Day Fix: Follow a structured plan to boost engagement through strategic posting and interaction.
- Seek Personalized Support: Utilize available resources like strategy sessions and free audio experiences for tailored guidance.
Final Thoughts
Michelle Thames delivers a comprehensive and actionable guide to navigating Instagram's engagement challenges in 2025. By focusing on genuine connections, strategic content creation, and leveraging new algorithmic priorities, listeners are equipped with the tools needed to enhance their Instagram presence effectively.
For more insights and strategies, tune in to future episodes of Social Media Decoded with Michelle Thames.