Good Content with Shannon McKinstrie

Carousel posts are a HOT topic right now, but are they really all that? Spoiler alert: good content always wins, regardless of the format. I'm sharing my personal tips and tricks for creating engaging carousel posts as I guide you through storytelling techniques, educational content, and how to make the best use of Instagram’s latest features. Plus, we’ll discuss how to stop overthinking your posts and flip those successful reels and captions into engaging carousels. This episode is packed with advice and examples so you can start creating your own carousel posts!In this episode we’ll be covering:Why carousel posts are so successful right now and what makes them swipeable.Start creating carousel posts right inside the Instagram app.How to flip your captions and reels into engaging carousels that also increase watch time.Using storytelling to create carousels that spark curiosity. The easy formulas I use to create my own carousel posts - with tons of examples!Creating carousels that entice and make sales with juicy hooks.Links to carousels in this episode:The Story of the Beach HouseEasy Formula for Picking Your Content Pillars: Based on the 4H’sMeet Your Content Pillars Based on the 4H’sFirst 3 Stories to Share EverydayA Week of Reels Hooks Perfect for Every NicheThe “Secret” to Using the Alogrithm to Blow Up Your ContentHow I Craft My CarouselsOther episodes you may have missed:Episode 013: What You Really Need to Know About Writing Instagram CaptionsEpisode 024: Is Storytelling the Missing Piece in Your Content?Episode 025: Why You Want to Use the New Instagram FeaturesEpisode 032: We All Start at Zero: Embrace Storytelling to Connect with Your CommunitySend 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!

Let’s discuss the core of what makes social media engagement powerful: storytelling. Fresh off Taylor Swift's Era's tour stop, I'm reminding you how storytelling can transform your social media strategy. We'll explore why Instagram remains a storytelling app, the magic behind Taylor Swift's fan connection, and practical steps for incorporating storytelling into your content. We’re talking actionable tips on taking your audience behind the scenes and building a loyal community. Whether you're documenting your day or sharing personal anecdotes, storytelling is your key to relatable and engaging content. In this episode we’ll be covering:Analyzing how artists have used social media platforms to connect with fans.Tips for establishing your own daily Instagram Stories strategy.Building a community from scratch, because we all start at zero.How storytelling and connection are key elements for creating good content.Exercises you can try to get started telling your own stories.Other episodes you might have missed:Episode 001: The Key to Creating Good Content for Social Media GrowthEpisode 004: Understanding and Meeting Your Audience's Emotional NeedsEpisode 007: Relatability in Everyday Content with Instagram Stories and ReelsEpisode 008: Creating Content That Starts a Conversation Episode 027: Let Your True Personality ShineSend 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!

This is a difficult topic to navigate, especially with everything going on in the world right now. I promised you that this podcast would focus on what’s working right now - and right now you may be feeling very heavy. If you don’t want to create content right now - that’s ok - your people will understand. Just know that like you, your audience may also be feeling overwhelmed. Let’s explore effective ways to create content that brings value and a moment of relief, whether it’s through fun, relatable posts or small wins.In this episode we’ll be covering:Avoid adding to the overwhelm through simple content that gives a small win or makes someone’s day a bit brighter.Applying specificity to go beyond the surface level struggles that your audience is experiencing.Why does your audience desire this outcome? What is the reasoning behind it?Keeping your content relevant and using words that people can attach to.Realizing it’s ok to take a pause with your content, do what’s right for you. Analyzing why these types of reels catch people's attention so fast.Expanding more on last week's discussion about visual and verbal hooks.Links to Reels in this episode:Reel #1: Cookie Crisp CerealReel #2: Cafe CurtainsReel #3: Spraying PerfumeCollaborative Post: Hurricane Helene Relief in WNCOther episodes you might have missed:Episode 004: Understanding and Meeting Your Audience's Emotional NeedsEpisode 017: Turn a Simple Idea into a Reel People Will LoveEpisode 029: Tailoring Successful Reel Techniques to Your NicheEpisode 030: Attract New Followers with Talk to Camera ReelsSend 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!

Creating captivating talk-to-camera videos can be intimidating, but my most recent talk to camera reels have brought in ten times more followers than my “viral reels” with trending audio. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, I’ll guide you through the latest verbal hooks and storytelling techniques that are working right now. Plus, if talking to the camera makes you nervous, I’ve got practical tips to help you get comfortable and embrace your authentic self. We’ll also explore some fascinating behind-the-scenes examples that are going viral, and how to use these moments to engage with your audience without the anxiety of being on camera. In this episode we’ll be covering:The advice I give to my clients for getting comfortable on camera.Incorporating B roll and capturing authentic behind the scenes moments.Formatting tips for hooks, text layouts and more when creating your own videos.Building instant trust with your audience and inviting them into your world.A great way to create a “talk to camera reel” without actually talking to the camera.Trading fancy transitions for talk to camera reels that feel like Instagram Stories.Links to Reels in this episode:Reel 1: Bride Reel 2: Meal PrepReel 3: Where to Place Your Hooks - ExampleHooks to start your talk to camera videosOther episodes you might have missed:Episode 002: Uncomplicating Social Media through Simple ContentEpisode 017: Turn a Simple Idea into a Reel People Will LoveEpisode 018: The 4 H’s Are the Only Content Pillars You Need for ReelsEpisode 024: Is Storytelling the Missing Piece in Your Content?Episode 026: Start a Signature Series That People Keep Coming Back ForSend 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!

This episode is all about exploration and observation as we discover what's currently working when it comes to Instagram Reels. You may feel like your content just isn't performing as well lately, but I promise your content can be successful too! Let's go for a scroll as we dive into real examples, exploring simple yet impactful reel structures, and discuss the importance of storytelling, clear messaging, and relatability. Remember, social media should be a fun part of your business!In this episode we’ll be covering:Social media reach concerns and why some content is underperforming.The importance of simple, shareable, specific content (the 3 S’s!)Observing and choosing effective text placement, maximizing readability.Analyzing current content trends that are working right now and how to apply it to your own..Getting clear on your messaging and knowing your audience to improve engagement.Simple helpful content that provides clear, actionable tips.Sharing relatable scenarios using real-life situations for engaging content.Links to Reels in this episode:Reel: I had no idea I was contributing to the problem...Reel: FriendshipSend 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!

This is a topic I'm incredibly passionate about, but we haven't discussed much before – gatekeeping. Grab your notepad, because I'm going to share actionable tips on why revealing the full value in your content, without sending viewers to the captions, can boost both your engagement and business growth. I’m sharing real-life examples and proven hooks to help your audience find value immediately. No more holding back, let's create good content!In this episode we’ll be covering:Why you want to avoid withholding valuable tips and secrets in your content.Using engaging hooks with examples of hooks going viral right now.Create content that is specific and detailed to attract your audience.Focus on serving your audience rather than gaining short-term likes.Ethical business practices with transparency and value.Reusing successful content by turning it into other forms such as carousels.Links to the reels in this episode:Reel #1 - Sitting All DayReel #2 - Harvest Bowl RecipeReel #3 - In Case Your Mom Didn't Teach YouReel #4 - Flamingo PoseReel #5 - Bra HackOther episodes you might have missed:Episode 014: Why Creating Specific Content Leads to Higher EngagementEpisode 018: The 4 H’s Are the Only Content Pillars You Need for ReelsEpisode 020: SEO Strategies to Optimize Your Instagram ContentEpisode 024: Is Storytelling the Missing Piece in Your Content?Send 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!

This is a topic that’s been on my mind a lot lately, the importance of showing your brand personality on social media. Inspired by a recent LinkedIn post, we are going to explore why showing your true self is key to creating compelling content, even if you feel like you are too quirky or boring. We’re discussing the NFL’s sassy TikTok responses and I’m getting vulnerable with my own experiences. I’m also highlighting a couple accounts as we talk about why being authentically you can attract the right audience, making your brand unforgettable. Tune in for a little inspiration when it comes to injecting personality into your content. In this episode we’ll be covering:Examples of brands showing personality in their content and their effectiveness, like Wendy’s and the NFL.Being true to yourself matters in your content and your followers can tell when it isn’t authentic.Building a connection with your audience so that followers feel like they know you.Investing in a brand strategist and learning good copywriting skills will help bring more personality to your brand content.Leveraging personal interests like oat milk and reality tv to create that connection with followers.The growing need for genuine connections in a digitally connected yet socially distant world to address loneliness.Links + ResourcesReel #1Reel #2Join us in Indy for the Day One Conference!Other episodes you might have missed:Episode 006 : Selling a Lifestyle, Not Just a ProductEpisode 007: Relatability in Everyday Content with Instagram Stories and ReelsEpisode 019: Convert Viewers to Followers with the “That’s Me” 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!

Consider this your sign to start your own signature series that keeps your audience coming back for more. In this episode, we are going all in on how to start a signature series that makes your brand instantly recognizable and keeps followers coming back again and again. I’m using real-life examples to explore how creators are leveraging this type of content to grow their follower base and convert new visitors into loyal fans.In this episode we’ll be covering:Why this type of content helps grow your account with loyal fans.Familiar content and why we love it so much!Creating brand familiarity so you are instantly recognizable.How to create bingeable content and get more followers.Using different content styles to create content.Other episodes you might have missed:Episode 025: Why You Want to Use the New Instagram FeaturesEpisode 018: ​​The 4 H’s Are the Only Content Pillars You Need for ReelsEpisode 008: Creating Content That Starts a ConversationEpisode 007: Relatability in Everyday Content with Instagram Stories and ReelsLinks + Resources: Starting a signature series"My Favorite Places in Asheville” Part OneSend 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!

Here's the deal, when Instagram launches something new, they want you to hop on it, and Instagram’s latest feature has been the boost for reach and engagement you’ve been looking for. If you’ve been struggling with converting non-followers into followers or felt disheartened by low engagement, I’ve got some fresh insights for you. I’m breaking down Instagram’s new text overlay feature for carousel posts, with content ideas, and how it can boost your engagement. In this episode we’ll be covering:What the latest Instagram feature means for the future of carousel postsThe ways user behavior has changed over time and what they want to see right nowHow your Instagram acts as a storefront for your businessWhat’s working best right now to convert non-followersThe strategies you can start using for your carousel postsThe effectiveness of talk to camera reels when it comes to creating contentOther episodes you might have missed:Episode 14: Why Creating Specific Content Leads to Higher EngagementEpisode 19: Convert Viewers to Followers with the “That’s Me” ReelEpisode 20: SEO Strategies to Optimize Your Instagram ContentLinks + Resources: How to use the new Instagram features!Talk to Camera HooksStop Cross Posting Your Content CarouselHidden Gems at Costco 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!

Instagram has always been a storytelling app and in this episode we are going all in on why your content needs storytelling. Social media apps are meant for human connection and we're diving deep into the heart of what makes social media so engaging. I’m sharing actionable tips and real examples on how you can become a captivating storyteller, even if you think you can't. You can use simple b-roll, text overlays, and talk-to-camera reels to create impactful content whether you're a business owner, a social media manager, or just looking to better connect with your audience.In this episode we’ll be covering:Creating imperfect content, you can use editing apps if you need to.Why it’s important to stop hiding behind the camera and actually show your face.How product brands successfully use storytelling to attract and build a loyal fan base.Your audience needs relatable content to connect with you better.SO many examples of reels that are successfully using storytelling!Bonus: My number one tip to try if you want to grow on TikTokOther episodes you might have missed:Episode 3: Strategies for Genuine and Engaging Social Media ContentEpisode 7: Relatability in Everyday Content with Instagram Stories and ReelsEpisode 21: Getting Your Audience to Care About Your ContentReels in this episode:View my Founder's Story on InstagramEmergency Contacts Send 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!