Not gonna lie, this one gets real. Jay Schwedelson and Daniel Murray go beyond the usual follower-count talk to break down what really matters when it comes to audience size—and what doesn’t. Social proof, ad credibility, platform strategies, and how to avoid looking like a ghost town brand all come into play. Whether you’re trying to grow a brand or just not embarrass yourself online, this one’s got some gems.

ㅤ

Best Moments:

(00:40) The real reason Jay preps for Q4 months in advance—even if he procrastinates holiday shopping

(01:55) Why followers still matter when it comes to legitimacy and social proof

(02:54) Jay checks business credibility by LinkedIn followers, not websites

(03:49) YouTube Shorts outperforming subscriber-heavy accounts—and why that proves the algorithm has changed

(04:30) Why big brands run multiple burner accounts on social to maximize reach

(05:15) Running ads? People will click your profile—and your follower count influences their trust

(05:45) Followers unlock newsletter and broadcast features you can’t fake

(06:00) Set a baseline number to avoid looking sketchy—and stop chasing vanity metrics

ㅤ

Check out our 100% FREE + VIRTUAL EVENTS! ->

Guru Conference - The World's Largest Virtual EMAIL MARKETING Conference - Nov 6-7!

ㅤ

Check out Jay’s YOUTUBE Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@schwedelson

Check out Jay’s TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@schwedelson

Check Out Jay's INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/jayschwedelson/

ㅤ

MASSIVE thank you to our Sponsor, Marigold!!

Email chaos across campuses, branches, or chapters? Emma by Marigold lets HQ keep control while local teams send on-brand, on-time messages with ease.

Podcast & GURU listeners: 50 % off your first 3 months with an annual plan (new customers, 10 k-contact minimum, terms apply).

Claim your offer now at jayschwedelson.com/emma

Never Fight Your Battles Undressed! – Part 1

Pastor Rick's Daily Hope

Exploring the Essence of Integrity

The AI-powered Podcast Player