Podcast Summary: Social Media Decoded Episode: Visibility, Authority & Selling Online: Your Biggest Questions Answered (Q&A Sunday)
Host: Michelle Thames
Release Date: June 29, 2025

Introduction

In this engaging episode of Social Media Decoded, host Michelle Thames delves into her very first Q&A Sunday session as part of the Booked Invisible Series. Tailored for entrepreneurs, creators, and business owners, Michelle addresses pressing questions about enhancing visibility, establishing authority, and effective online selling strategies. With her signature no-fluff approach, she provides actionable insights and real-world strategies to help listeners grow their brands and businesses.

1. Staying Visible When Busy or Life Interrupts

Question: How do I stay visible when I'm busy or life gets in the way?

Michelle acknowledges the common struggle of maintaining consistency amidst life's unpredictabilities. She emphasizes that "consistency is about perfection, it's not about disappearing" (01:07).

Key Strategies:

• Batch Content Creation: Allocate specific times to create content in bulk, ensuring a steady flow even during hectic periods.
• Utilize Instagram Stories: Share quick check-ins or updates to maintain a connection without the pressure of crafting perfect posts.
• Repurpose Top-Performing Content: Reuse and adapt successful content pieces to save time and maintain engagement.

Notable Quote:
"Sometimes a 5-second update in your stories is all that you need to keep the connection alive." – Michelle Thames (01:07)

2. Growing Your Email List with the Right People

Question: What's the fastest way to grow my email list with the right people?

Michelle advises against costly advertising and generic freebies. Instead, she recommends offering specific, valuable, and actionable freebies that address real problems.

Key Strategies:

• Offer Targeted Freebies: Create resources like her $200 Story Strategy Guide that provide tangible solutions.
• Promote Across Channels: Share your freebie in Instagram stories, reels, podcasts, and even your email signature.
• Encourage Direct Engagement: Invite your community to DM you for the freebie, initiating direct conversations that can lead to sales.

Notable Quote:
"When your freebie solves a real problem, the right people will jump on and stay engaged." – Michelle Thames (03:15)

3. Selling Every Day Without Feeling Pushy or Salesy

Question: How can I sell every day without feeling pushy or salesy?

Michelle highlights the importance of integrating offers naturally into your content rather than relying solely on big launches.

Key Strategies:

• Weave Offers into Content: Share client successes, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and personal excitement about your offerings.
• Use Soft Call-to-Actions (CTAs): Encourage actions like "DM me this word if you want my framework" to make selling feel more conversational.
• Believe in Your Offers: Genuine belief in your products or services makes your sales approach feel authentic and less forced.

Notable Quote:
"When you believe in your offers and genuinely want to help, it never feels pushy." – Michelle Thames (04:50)

4. Becoming the Go-To Expert in Your Niche

Question: How do I become the go-to expert in my niche, even if I'm still growing?

To establish authority, Michelle suggests leveraging your unique perspective and consistently sharing valuable content.

Key Strategies:

• Showcase Your Unique Perspective: Share what sets you apart from others in your niche.
• Share Results and Stories: Highlight your successes and personal journey to build trust and relatability.
• Implement a Five-Step Content System:
  1. Teach: Provide educational content.
  2. Tell Stories: Share personal or client stories.
  3. Give Value: Offer actionable tips and insights.
  4. Showcase Social Proof: Display testimonials and endorsements.
  5. Invite Engagement: Encourage your audience to interact and connect.

Notable Quote:
"You don't have to wait for a big following. Start now and the reputation builds as you go." – Michelle Thames (06:20)

5. Taking Action to Move Your Business Forward

Question: What's one thing I can do this week to move my business forward?

Michelle encourages listeners to take focused action by promoting a single offer or freebie consistently throughout the week.

Key Strategies:

• Choose One Offer or Freebie: Select a specific product or resource to highlight.
• Promote Daily: Share it every day across your channels to maintain visibility.
• Engage Directly: DM engaged followers to understand their needs and personally invite them to join your community or email list.

Notable Quote:
"Momentum comes from focus, not just effort. Show up and invite your people in." – Michelle Thames (07:10)

Bonus: Dealing with Comparison and Imposter Syndrome

Question: How do you deal with comparison or imposter syndrome?

Michelle offers heartfelt advice, acknowledging that imposter syndrome is a common experience, even among successful coaches.

Key Strategies:

• Reconnect with Your 'Why': Remind yourself of your motivations and goals.
• Celebrate Wins: Look at your achievements and positive feedback to boost confidence.
• Focus on Serving Others: Shift your mindset to helping others, which diminishes self-doubt.

Notable Quote:
"When you're in motion and serving, imposter syndrome gets a lot quieter. Trust me." – Michelle Thames (08:45)

Conclusion

Michelle wraps up the episode by inviting listeners to engage further, whether by working with her in a 30-day marketing visibility sprint or by submitting questions for future Q&A sessions. She emphasizes the importance of community and continuous learning through the Booked Invisible Series.

Final Encouragement:
"Your content is powerful. Let's make it also profitable." – Michelle Thames (09:00)

Notable Resources Mentioned

• $200 Story Strategy Guide: A free mini guide to enhance Instagram story effectiveness.
• 30-Day Marketing Visibility Sprint: One-on-one coaching program for personalized marketing strategies.

Connect with Michelle Thames:

• Instagram: @MichelleL.Thames

Call to Action:

• DM Michelle your questions: Engage directly for personalized advice.
• Leave a Rating and Review: Support the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to help reach more entrepreneurs.

Remember:
"You're one bold step away from your next breakthrough. Keep going." – Michelle Thames

Timestamps Summary

• 01:07 – Introduction and first content tip on consistency
• 03:15 – Strategies for growing an email list
• 04:50 – Tips on non-pushy daily selling
• 06:20 – Establishing authority in your niche
• 07:10 – Actionable steps to advance your business
• 08:45 – Overcoming comparison and imposter syndrome
• 09:00 – Closing remarks and final encouragement

This episode is a treasure trove of practical advice for anyone looking to enhance their online presence and effectively monetize their efforts without the overwhelm. Whether you're struggling with consistency, building an email list, or navigating the challenges of selling authentically, Michelle Thames provides clear, actionable strategies to propel your business forward.