The Abigail Peugh Podcast: Episode 43 Summary

Title: Using Instagram Trial Reels to Gain Hundreds of New Followers with @niki.puls
Release Date: February 4, 2025

Host: Abigail Peugh
Guest: Nikki Puls (@niki.puls), Marketing Coach

Introduction

In Episode 43 of The Abigail Peugh Podcast, Abigail Peugh welcomes marketing coach Nikki Puls to discuss a groundbreaking Instagram feature—Trial Reels—and how it can be leveraged to exponentially grow your follower base. This episode delves deep into the mechanics of Trial Reels, offering actionable strategies and insights to help entrepreneurs build a more engaged and expansive online community.

Understanding Instagram Trial Reels

Abigail introduces Trial Reels as a new and unique feature on Instagram that differs significantly from regular Reels and even TikTok’s offerings. Unlike traditional Reels that appear on followers' feeds, Trial Reels are exclusively shown to non-followers, tapping into Instagram’s interest-based algorithm to target potential new audiences.

Key Points:

• Unique Algorithm: Trial Reels use a distinct interest-based algorithm, similar to TikTok, to reach users who do not already follow you. This allows for highly targeted content dissemination.

• Rolling Release: The feature is being rolled out gradually without a clear pattern, meaning some users might have access while others do not, regardless of follower count (02:06).

Notable Quote:

“Trial Reels is one of the first new features Instagram has launched in a long time... no other platform has a feature like this.” – Abigail Peugh (02:06)

Strategies for Using Trial Reels Effectively

Nikki emphasizes the importance of consistent experimentation and adaptation when utilizing Trial Reels. She shares her initial struggles and eventual success through persistent testing.

Key Strategies:

1. Top of Funnel (ToFu) Content: Focus on broad, introductory content that appeals to a wide audience. Avoid niche-specific jargon that might alienate new viewers (07:38).

2. Daily Posting: Commit to posting five to six Trial Reels daily to teach the algorithm and build momentum. Consistency is crucial for the algorithm to recognize and promote your content (08:56).

3. Repurposing Content: Use existing high-performing content from your feed and adapt it for Trial Reels by updating hooks and audio (14:54).

Notable Quotes:

“Top of funnel content is just that, it's an introduction. This is your elevator pitch.” – Abigail Peugh (07:38)

“Post consistently to it every day. If you're stuck on Instagram, go and make six tryout reels today...” – Abigail Peugh (18:00)

Types of Content That Work on Trial Reels

Nikki and Abigail discuss the specific types of content that resonate well on Trial Reels, emphasizing the importance of crafting content that serves as a strong introduction to new audiences.

Effective Content Types:

• Introduction Posts: Share personal stories or transformations to introduce yourself and your brand (11:27).

• Storytelling Hooks: Engage viewers with compelling narratives that highlight who you are and what you offer without pushing for immediate sales (09:55).

• Repurposed Content with Trending Audio: Update older content with current trending audio to keep it fresh and relevant (16:23).

Notable Quote:

“If your account is not growing or you're stuck, it's probably because you're not posting enough top of funnel content.” – Abigail Peugh (07:38)

Maximizing Trial Reels Performance

To optimize the effectiveness of Trial Reels, Nikki shares several tactical tips:

1. Diverse Testing: Create multiple versions of a Reel by varying hooks, audio, and visuals to determine what resonates best with new audiences (22:16).

2. Duplication and Variation: Duplicate successful Trial Reels and tweak elements to maintain freshness while testing different approaches (16:23).

3. Leveraging Automation: Utilize tools like ManyChat for automated follow-ups, ensuring that interactions from Trial Reels translate into meaningful engagement without additional effort (19:42).

4. Patience and Persistence: Understand that Trial Reels may take longer to gain traction initially. Allow 24 hours to gather insights before making adjustments (19:04).

Notable Quotes:

“Trial Reels is its own algorithm... you have to teach that algorithm.” – Abigail Peugh (17:57)

“You can post five trial reels all at the same time... reach new people, bring people into your funnel, and you're good for the day.” – Abigail Peugh (20:14)

Tools and Additional Resources

Nikki offers a valuable resource for listeners interested in delving deeper into Trial Reels. She mentions a Viral Trial Reels Guide available through her bio link, which includes her specific methods and over 50 top-of-funnel hooks to implement immediately.

Call to Action:

• Download the Guide: Access Nikki’s comprehensive guide to harnessing the power of Trial Reels.
• Engage and Share: Listeners are encouraged to try the strategies discussed and share their results via Instagram DMs.

Notable Quote:

“In my bio, the top link right now. It is a viral trial reels guide breaking down my specific method...” – Nikki Puls (22:53)

Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Abigail and Nikki wrap up the episode by reinforcing the potential of Trial Reels as a powerful tool for expanding your Instagram presence. They encourage listeners to embrace this feature, experiment boldly, and utilize the shared strategies to attract and engage new followers effectively.

Key Takeaways:

• Embrace New Features: Early adopters of Instagram’s Trial Reels can significantly benefit from increased visibility and follower growth.
• Focus on Introduction: Prioritize content that introduces and builds rapport with new audiences.
• Consistent Testing: Regularly test and iterate on your Trial Reels to identify what drives engagement and follower acquisition.
• Leverage Automation: Use automation tools to manage interactions efficiently and sustain engagement from new followers.

Final Quote:

“Something else that I will add about trial reels is since it's not going to followers, you can post 5, 6 trial reels all at the same time... you're reaching new people, bringing people into your funnel, and then you're good for the day.” – Abigail Peugh (20:14)

Resources Mentioned:

• Nikki Puls’s Viral Trial Reels Guide: Available through Nikki's Instagram bio link.
• Abigail Peugh’s Instagram: Follow for more tips and updates.

Connect with the Podcast:

• Instagram: @abigailpeugh
• Podcast Website: The Abigail Peugh Podcast

By implementing the strategies discussed in this episode, entrepreneurs can effectively utilize Instagram's Trial Reels to grow their online business, attract new followers, and build a more engaged community. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale, the insights shared by Abigail and Nikki provide a roadmap for leveraging this innovative feature to its fullest potential.