

Good Content with Shannon McKinstrie
Shannon McKinstrie
Open a bottle of pinot grigio or whip up an oat milk latte and relax with your host, Shannon McKinstrie, as she cuts through the obnoxious social media noise, answers all your burning questions, and shares exactly what’s working right now in real time. No more second-guessing, it’s time to level up your social media game the tried and true way…with good content.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 27, 2025 • 12min
Was That an Ad? Even the Big Brands are Making it Personal
This summer is going to be amazing for your content and we are going to kick it off by exploring how today’s biggest brands (think Oreo, Taco Bell, and DSW) are embracing a more personal, relatable approach in their content marketing. We’ll walk through some big brand reels breaking down how they fit into the REP hook, discussing why the best marketing doesn’t feel like marketing, and how being human and relatable always wins, even in a world driven by trends and algorithms. In this episode we’ll be covering:Viral reels, trolls, and using the latest content trends for inspiration, not copyright infringement.The importance of adding your personal spin to trends and hooks on social media.The content shifts toward personalization and examples of how the big brands are adapting.The power of using the REP hook and moving beyond boring how to content.Links to reels in this episode:Reel: “Don’t Steal People’s Content”Other episodes you might have missed:Episode 058: Embrace the Content Creator MindsetEpisode 059: Are You Talking About What You Love?Episode 060: Nail Your Short Form Videos with This Simple FormulaEpisode 061: Use The Relatable Expert Hook to Create Your Next Helpful ReelEpisode 062: Why You Don’t Need Fancy Content to Stand OutSend a message!If you use the send a message option above, be sure to include your email address if you would like a reply! (Please allow 3-5 business days for a response) Join me in the Reels Lab! Love this conversation? Make sure to follow and subscribe so you never miss an episode. Connect with me on Instagram!

May 20, 2025 • 14min
Why You Don’t Need Fancy Content to Stand Out
Today’s episode is a bit extra special, because I’m recording from our very own beach house at the Outer Banks! I’m sharing the wild, emotional journey of how I was able to buy the lot next to my grandmother’s original cottage and how content creation made it all possible.We’ll also talk about why the best content these days looks and feels like it’s coming from a real person, and I’ll break down strategies for simple, relatable posts that make you the friend people want to follow, no matter your business size or follower count. Plus, I’ll highlight real examples as inspiration so you can create easy, authentic content that fits right into your life.In this episode we’ll be covering:The power of posting authentic, relatable content rooted in real life.A huge follower count does not necessarily equate success.Instagram’s new Blend feature and creative ways to use it for marketing insights.Why posting like a person, not a brand, connects and resonates better with audiences.Creating low-stress, effective content by simply documenting moments from your daily life.Links to reels in this episode:Reel #1: Two player board gamesReel #2: Person with this initial owes you a beer…Reel #3: Solution to my problemsReel #4: Color mixing stationOther episodes you might have missed:Episode 058: Embrace the Content Creator MindsetEpisode 059: Are You Talking About What You Love?Episode 060: Nail Your Short Form Videos with This Simple FormulaEpisode 061: Use The Relatable Expert Hook to Create Your Next Helpful ReelSend a message!If you use the send a message option above, be sure to include your email address if you would like a reply! (Please allow 3-5 business days for a response) Join me in the Reels Lab! Love this conversation? Make sure to follow and subscribe so you never miss an episode. Connect with me on Instagram!

May 13, 2025 • 13min
Use The Relatable Expert Hook to Create Your Next Helpful Reel
When you create content you’re passionate about, your audience feels it, and that authenticity leads to better engagement and faster growth for your brand. Today, we’re talking about my tried and true R.E.P. hook formula: Relatable, Expertise, and Personal. We’ll discuss how to infuse these elements into your reels, using relatable words, recognizable brands or phrases, and personal storytelling to create effortless, trust-building content. I also share tips on structuring your hooks on screen, demoing in your videos for maximum impact, and using your own expertise without overthinking it.In this episode we’ll be covering:What it really means for your Instagram content to go viral.How to craft your on screen hooks using the R.E.P. formula: Relatable, Expertise, and Personal.Overcoming content creation overwhelm by focusing on what truly excites you.Real-life example from a client who had a reel go viral using this exact formula.Tips for integrating personal stories and professional expertise to build trust and relatability.Examples of effective hooks for different industries like nutrition, fitness, and design.Links to reels in this episode:The REP ReelOther episodes you might have missed:Episode 051: Start Talking About Yourself in Your ContentEpisode 054: Is There Enough “You” In Your Content?Episode 059: Are You Talking About What You Love?Episode 060: Nail Your Short Form Videos with This Simple FormulaSend a message!If you use the send a message option above, be sure to include your email address if you would like a reply! (Please allow 3-5 business days for a response) Join me in the Reels Lab! Love this conversation? Make sure to follow and subscribe so you never miss an episode. Connect with me on Instagram!

May 6, 2025 • 17min
Nail Your Short Form Videos with This Simple Formula
Let’s break down exactly how to nail your short form videos without feeling overwhelmed, whether you’re creating Reels, YouTube Shorts, or TikTok videos. In this episode, I’m sharing real examples of reels that have exploded with engagement and how the three S’s apply every single time.. We’ll discuss why certain words work so well to make your videos relatable and actionable and the importance of specificity in your hooks to truly connect with your audience and increase shares. We even cover how to benchmark what viral really means for you, average engagement rates, and leveraging trends that make your content instantly relatable.In this episode we’ll be covering:Quickly creating reels that focus on simplicity, specificity, and shareability - the three S'sWhat going viral could look like for your account and typical engagement rates you can expect..Importance of using relatable and specific hooks to increase engagement.Why showing the desired end result first in short form video grabs attention quicklyUsing intentional word choices to create easy, actionable contentLeveraging specificity in video hooks such as locations, occasions, and brands.Links to reels in this episode:Reel #1: Design and Delights Stamp vs WallpaperReel #2: All Inclusive ResortReel #3: Mental Load Kids Clothing SwapReel #4: Jaws TrendOther episodes you might have missed:Episode 005: Create Shareable Content to Increase Your Reach with the 3 S’sEpisode 021: Getting Your Audience to Care About Your ContentEpisode 042: Your Simple B-Roll Can Become Easy Reels That Actually ConvertEpisode 055: We Love B-Roll Because Simple, Shareable Content Never Goes Out of StyleSend a message!If you use the send a message option above, be sure to include your email address if you would like a reply! (Please allow 3-5 business days for a response) Join me in the Reels Lab! Love this conversation? Make sure to follow and subscribe so you never miss an episode. Connect with me on Instagram!

6 snips
Apr 29, 2025 • 10min
Are You Talking About What You Love?
Dive into the power of self-awareness in marketing! Discover how your true passions can enhance content creation and resonate with your audience. What topic could you confidently discuss on national TV? Learn to harness your enthusiasm and turn it into magnetic content. Real examples show how popular phrases and branding can boost relatability. It's time to reset, pivot, or even rebrand if your content feels stale. Uncover the secret to becoming a go-to expert by aligning your interests with current trends!

7 snips
Apr 22, 2025 • 8min
Embrace the Content Creator Mindset
Discover how minor adjustments can transform your social media content into engaging experiences. Learn the power of relatable storytelling and emotional resonance in captivating your audience. Uncover the importance of personal branding, even for businesses, and how treating accounts like personal profiles fosters community. Explore the effectiveness of Instagram stories and behind-the-scenes glimpses to strengthen connections. Get inspired by real-world examples from diverse industries to elevate your content game!

Apr 15, 2025 • 13min
Repurpose Your Content for More Impact with Less Effort
Do you want to save hours of your time when it comes to creating content on social media? I know you do! That’s why we are going all in on how to repurpose your content with ease across various platforms. We’ll discuss the difference between reposting and repurposing, why repurposing is the way to go, and how content performs differently across platforms like LinkedIn, TikTok, and Instagram. We’ll also look at what typical engagement rates are, and review real examples as I walk you through how I would repurpose those posts if they were my own.In this episode we’ll be covering:Why everyone should be repurposing content for social media marketing. The difference between repurposing and simply reposting.Strategies for tailoring content to different platforms like LinkedIn and TikTok.Converting your content into multiple formats, from reels to newsletters, with minimal effort.Real examples of how I would repurpose viral content for various industries.Links in this episode:Loyalty Programs CarouselNo Frills Diner ReelBest Design Decisions ReelFurniture IndustryContent I’ve Repurposed:First Three Instagram Stories CarouselFirst Three Instagram Stories ReelOther episodes you might have missed:Episode 010: Turning Testimonials into Engaging Content for More SalesEpisode 033: Turn Your Content into Swipe-Worthy Carousel PostsEpisode 053: Use Customer Insights to Create Reels That Attract and ConvertSend a message!If you use the send a message option above, be sure to include your email address if you would like a reply! (Please allow 3-5 business days for a response) Join me in the Reels Lab! Love this conversation? Make sure to follow and subscribe so you never miss an episode. Connect with me on Instagram!

18 snips
Apr 8, 2025 • 11min
The Reel That Had Me Clicking Buy Immediately
Only 3% of your audience is ready to buy instantly, but they often need to see your content 77 times first. Discover the power of anticipation marketing and how strategic consistency can build trust with potential buyers. A captivating Instagram reel that tells a story can turn casual viewers into eager customers. Learn effective strategies that emphasize quality content over mere follower counts. Plus, get ready to create your own engaging reel that hooks your audience and drives sales!

12 snips
Apr 1, 2025 • 13min
We Love B-Roll Because Simple, Shareable Content Never Goes Out of Style
B-roll isn’t boring; it’s a timeless tool that enhances your storytelling. Pair it with trending audio and quality text to captivate your audience. Discover how to select the perfect sounds on Instagram to elevate your videos. Quality engagement trumps quantity when creating content, so focus on resonating with your audience. The journey into social media marketing highlights the joy of genuine connections. Embrace humor and helpful tips to make your content shareable and impactful.

14 snips
Mar 25, 2025 • 13min
Is There Enough “You” In Your Content?
Dive into the heart of social media as the discussion revolves around the importance of authentic storytelling. Explore how sharing personal experiences can foster genuine connections. Say goodbye to perfectly curated content and embrace the beauty of everyday moments. Learn the art of engaging narratives using timelines and discover what to highlight on your grid. Rediscover the real purpose of social media by bringing more of 'you' into the equation!