Social Media Decoded: Episode Summary

Episode Title: Instagram Isn’t Dead—But These Strategies Are
Host: Michelle Thames
Release Date: April 28, 2025

Introduction

In the latest episode of Social Media Decoded, host Michelle Thames delves into the evolving landscape of Instagram marketing. Contrary to the popular belief that Instagram's effectiveness is waning, Michelle asserts that the platform remains a potent tool for business growth—“Instagram still works 100%. But you've got to work it the right way” (09:30). This episode serves as a comprehensive guide for entrepreneurs, creators, and brands seeking to refine their Instagram strategies to achieve greater visibility and profitability in 2025.

Outdated Instagram Strategies

Michelle begins by addressing several Instagram tactics that have lost their efficacy over time. She emphasizes the importance of abandoning these methods to enhance authentic engagement and algorithm favorability.

1. Engagement Pods

   Definition: Groups where members agree to like, comment, and share each other's content to artificially boost engagement.

   Issue: Instagram's algorithm has become adept at detecting inauthentic interactions, leading to the deprioritization of content from engagement pods.

   Michelle’s Insight:
   “Instagram's algorithm figured that out years ago and now it sees it as inauthentic engagement and deprioritizes your content if you do this. So I am begging you here on this podcast today, please do not use engagement pods.” (00:58)

2. Hashtag Overload

   Definition: Utilizing the maximum number of hashtags (e.g., 30) in hopes of increasing post visibility.

   Issue: The strategy of using numerous, often irrelevant hashtags is outdated. Instagram now prioritizes relevance and context over sheer quantity.

   Michelle’s Advice:
   “So instead focus on a few highly relevant, niche specific hashtags and pair them with strong captions that tell the algorithm who you are and who you help. So please do not use 30 hashtags, maybe five that are super super relevant.” (01:05)

3. Overly Curated Perfect Grids

   Definition: Maintaining a meticulously organized and aesthetically flawless Instagram grid.

   Issue: Audiences now crave authenticity and realness over perfection. Excessive curation can make brands appear disconnected and less relatable.

   Michelle’s Recommendation:
   “Today people want to see you, they want the realness, they want to trust you. So instead use behind the scenes content. Use face to camera reels... No one cares about your grid being perfect.” (01:20)

Effective Instagram Strategies in 2025

Transitioning from outdated practices, Michelle outlines three powerful strategies that remain effective for organic growth and client attraction on Instagram.

1. Personal Branding and Storytelling

   Focus: Building a relatable and trustworthy brand through authentic storytelling.

   Application:

   • Share your personal journey and the steps that led you to success.
   • Highlight client stories and transformations to showcase real results.
   • Offer lessons from your weekly experiences or behind-the-scenes glimpses.

   Quote:
   “People follow people, they do not follow perfectly branded businesses.” (02:15)

2. Short-Form Video with Purpose (Reels)

   Focus: Leveraging Instagram Reels not just for trends, but as a strategic tool to educate and engage.

   Application:

   • Create Talking Head Reels that teach specific concepts or share bold opinions.
   • Use Reels to debunk misconceptions within your niche.
   • Batch create 3 to 5 Reels weekly to maintain consistency and relevance.

   Michelle’s Tip:
   “Batch 3 to 5 reels a week using the prompts from my $17 visible and booked Audio course.” (04:10)

3. Clear Call to Action (CTA) in Every Post

   Focus: Ensuring that each piece of content serves a purpose by guiding the audience towards a specific action.

   Application:

   • Direct followers to participate in challenges, explore offers, or send direct messages.
   • Examples include inviting them to join a free challenge or access valuable resources.

   Example:
   “Want to stop feeling invisible online? Start with my free seven day Visibility Audio Challenge. The link is in my bio.” (06:45)

Final Takeaways

Michelle wraps up the episode by reiterating the core message: Instagram remains a vibrant platform for business growth, provided that users adopt authentic, value-driven strategies. Key takeaways include:

• Ditch Ineffective Tactics: Abandon engagement pods, reduce hashtag usage to relevant terms, and move away from overly polished grids.

• Embrace Authenticity: Focus on storytelling, real-life content, and transparent branding to build trust with your audience.

• Strategic Content Creation: Utilize purposeful Reels and ensure every post includes a clear CTA to drive engagement and conversions.

Closing Thoughts:
“Instagram is not dead, friend, but your strategy just might be.” (09:00) Michelle encourages listeners to reevaluate and adapt their Instagram approaches to align with the platform's current dynamics.

Conclusion

This episode of Social Media Decoded serves as a crucial wake-up call for anyone relying on outdated Instagram strategies. Michelle Thames provides actionable insights and practical strategies to help businesses navigate the ever-changing social media terrain effectively. By focusing on authenticity, purposeful content creation, and strategic engagement, entrepreneurs and brands can harness Instagram's full potential in 2025.

For those seeking further guidance, Michelle offers resources such as her $17 Visible and Booked Audio Course and a free 7-day Visibility Audio Challenge, designed to help listeners implement the discussed strategies seamlessly.

Notable Quotes:

• “Instagram’s algorithm figured that out years ago and now it sees it as inauthentic engagement and deprioritizes your content if you do this.” — Michelle Thames (00:58)

• “People follow people, they do not follow perfectly branded businesses.” — Michelle Thames (02:15)

• “Instagram is not dead, friend, but your strategy just might be.” — Michelle Thames (09:00)

Resources Mentioned:

• $17 Visible and Booked Audio Course: Detailed strategies for enhancing Instagram visibility.
• Free 7-Day Visibility Audio Challenge: A step-by-step program to boost online presence.

Stay tuned to Social Media Decoded for more expert insights and actionable strategies to elevate your social media game and grow your business online.