Social Media Decoded with Michelle Thames

Episode: The Fastest Way to Build Authority Online in 2025
Date: September 11, 2025

Episode Overview

In this episode, host Michelle Thames breaks down the rapidly changing online landscape and reveals her proven, actionable formula for building true authority online in 2025. She emphasizes that authority—and not simply visible content or follower count—is the key to cutting through today's noisy, AI-driven digital space. Michelle’s approach is about standing out with strategic visibility, trust, and creating real connections. Listeners learn why building authority is now faster than ever if done with intention, along with practical steps and mindset shifts to accelerate online leadership and business growth.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Why Authority is Everything in 2025

[00:30]

• The digital space is “noisy” with:
  • Widespread AI-generated content
  • Unpredictable social algorithms
  • More entrepreneurs entering the market
• People crave:
  • Real voices
  • Real experiences
  • Tangible expertise
• Michelle’s core belief:
  • “Authority cuts through the noise. People are craving real voices, real experiences, real expertise.”
    — Michelle Thames [00:45]

2. The Authority Formula

[01:20]
Michelle outlines her simple, effective system for building authority:

a. Pick a Signature Platform

• Choose one “main stage”—don’t try to be everywhere.
• Examples: Podcasting, LinkedIn, or YouTube.
• Michelle’s approach: Podcast daily + LinkedIn + Instagram.

b. Teach, Don’t Just Tell

• “Authority comes from showing people how, not just telling them what.” — Michelle Thames [01:44]
• Share systems and actionable strategies, not just generic advice.

c. Combine In-Person and Online

• In-person opportunities (conferences, networking events) create depth and lasting impression.
• Blending the two is “truly unstoppable.” Michelle calls this her “secret sauce.”

d. Leverage Social Proof

• Use testimonials, win screenshots, client stories.
• “Social proof builds trust in seconds.”
• Not for bragging, but to show real-world results—vital in a skeptical digital age.

e. Always Have a Next Step

• People will lose interest if they don’t know where to go next.
• Convert authority into revenue by guiding followers into events, communities, or resources.

3. The New Speed of Building Authority

[04:25]

• Intentional positioning lets people go from “invisible to landing speaking gigs, brand partnerships, and $5,000 clients in under 90 days.”
• “In 2025, people buy from leaders, not lurkers.” — Michelle Thames [04:52]
• Success is about stepping fully into the leader’s role now.

4. The Authority Ecosystem

[05:35]

• Biggest takeaway:
  • “Authority isn’t built in the algorithm. It’s built in the ecosystem.” — Michelle Thames [05:37]
  • Your face, your voice, your story—PLUS a system for connection and conversion.
• “Stop chasing visibility and start building authority.” — Michelle Thames [05:54]

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “Authority cuts through the noise. People are craving real voices, real experiences, real expertise.”
  — Michelle Thames [00:45]

• “Pick a signature platform. Don’t try to dominate everywhere.”
  — Michelle Thames [01:23]

• “Authority comes from showing people how, not just telling them what.”
  — Michelle Thames [01:44]

• “When I speak at conferences or host my Coffee and Connections, the authority boost is instant. People experience me beyond the feed.”
  — Michelle Thames [02:10]

• “Social proof builds trust in seconds.”
  — Michelle Thames [02:33]

• “In 2025, people buy from leaders, not lurkers. And if you want to be the leader in your space, you’ve got to step into that role now.”
  — Michelle Thames [04:52]

• “Authority isn’t built in the algorithm. It’s built in the ecosystem. Ooh, that’s a bar. I got bars.”
  — Michelle Thames [05:37]

• “Stop chasing visibility and start building authority.”
  — Michelle Thames [05:54]

Key Timestamps

• 00:30 — Introduction to 2025 shifts in the online space, the importance of authority
• 01:20 — Michelle’s “Authority Formula” revealed
• 01:23 — Pick your signature platform
• 01:44 — The value of teaching over telling
• 02:10 — The synergy of in-person and online presence
• 02:33 — The power of social proof in establishing trust
• 02:50 — Importance of directing your audience to the next step
• 04:25 — Real talk: Building authority can be fast if you’re intentional
• 04:52 — Mindset shift: Become the leader, not a lurker
• 05:37 — The “algorithm vs. ecosystem” authority insight
• 05:54 — Action step: Prioritize authority over mere visibility

Actionable Steps & Listener Invitation

• Be intentional with where and how you show up online.
• Focus on value and leadership rather than just content output.
• Join Michelle’s upcoming online event, “She Connects” on September 25th, and/or get on her events waitlist for future opportunities.
• “Your audience is waiting for you to lead.”
  — Michelle Thames [06:17]

Tone & Style

Michelle Thames delivers her insights in an energetic, motivational tone, filled with real-world examples and practical advice. Her approach blends encouragement for beginners with actionable expertise for seasoned creators.