If you’re posting Reels without seeing growth, you’re not alone. Reels are still the #1 driver of reach on Instagram, but most business owners are missing a few key steps that make the difference between content that falls flat and content that attracts clients.

I’m walking you through the three non-negotiable steps to creating Instagram Reels that grow your business. You’ll also hear how the newest Instagram updates—Trial Reels, reposts, and deeper analytics—impact your strategy in 2025.

If you want to stop wasting time on content that doesn’t convert and start creating scroll-stopping Reels that bring the right people into your world, this episode is for you.

What You’ll Learn:

[02:12] Why Reels are still the #1 driver of visibility in 2025
 [04:01] Step 1: Clarity and focus—why niching down is the foundation of growth
 [06:45] Step 2: The 3 E’s of high-value content (educate, entertain, engage)
 [10:20] Step 3: The mindset shift that makes Reels easier and more effective
 [13:32] How Trial Reels work—and how not to get penalized by the limits
 [15:08] New analytics that show exactly when people drop off and engage
 [16:40] Why reposts are on the rise and how to leverage them for visibility
 [19:27] Behind the scenes of Hot Reels—how members are applying this system

Key Takeaways:

• Clarity wins on Instagram. If your niche and message aren’t clear, your content won’t connect.
• The three E’s (educate, entertain, engage) make your Reels binge-worthy and shareable.
• Reels are still the most powerful visibility tool on IG, but they only work when tied to your business goals.
• Trial Reels, reposts, and analytics give you more tools than ever—if you use them strategically.
• Growth doesn’t come from being “viral” or funny—it comes from content that connects with your dream clients.

Hot Reels is OPEN

Enrollment is officially OPEN for Hot Reels, my 12-month Instagram content lab. This is your chance to:

• Get my personal coaching and feedback on your content
• Learn the proven Reels system behind hundreds of client wins
• Stop guessing and finally grow your business with Instagram

Doors only open a couple of times a year. Once they close, they’re closed. 

If you have questions about the Hot Reels program or want to connect, email me at [email protected].

CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST, ELIZABETH MARBERRY:

WORK WITH ELIZABETH

• Apply for your FREE Instagram Breakthrough Session with Elizabeth
• Free guide to Monetize Your IG: Seven Simple and Proven Ways to Finally Make Money on Instagram

Follow Elizabeth Marberry on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook

Please be sure to rate, review and follow the show on Apple podcasts (or wherever you find your podcasts) so we can get this free value to other people who need it.

If you're tired of creating content that goes unseen, this one’s for you. With Instagram posts now showing up on Google (yes, that’s a thing), it’s never been more important to use the right keywords. But what does that actually mean? In this quick-hit solo episode, I’ll walk you through a simple, actionable strategy for discovering what your ideal clients are already searching for, and how to use those exact words in your content.

What You’ll Learn:
 [04:46] Why keyword strategy is essential and why success goes to the implementers
 [05:44] How Instagram’s new Google indexing changes everything
 [06:40] The difference between Instagram SEO and keyword discovery
 [07:08] A mini case study from Hot Reels: how Krista closed a client from IG content
 [08:56] Another Hot Reels win: how Courtney sold 2 coaching packages through Instagram
 [11:14] Why keywords help the algorithm show your content to the right people
 [13:12] Step-by-step: how to find your ideal keywords without overthinking it
 [14:38] The Contact Form Trick: goldmine for language your clients actually use
 [15:34] The Google Autocomplete Hack (and why it's the easiest place to start)
 [16:27] 3 keyword research tools I love (and how to use them fast)
 [22:00] How to build your keyword list in under 10 minutes
 [22:30] The #1 thing not to do with your keywords (don’t get flagged!)
[23:28] The best place to find client language for your content (and it’s free)

Key Takeaways:

1. Keyword strategy isn’t just for websites anymore. With Instagram content now indexed on Google, your keywords help you show up in two places at once.
2. You don’t need to be an SEO pro to find strong keywords—just start with your clients’ own language.
3. Google’s autocomplete and tools like KeywordTool.io, Answer the Public, and Google Trends make keyword discovery fast and free.
4. Don’t keyword-stuff your content. Use natural language that speaks directly to your people.
5. Your content can’t convert if no one sees it. Keywords = visibility = more leads.

Join the Waitlist:

 🚨 Doors open August 18th for Hot Reels, my high-touch 12-month Instagram content lab! If you're ready to stop guessing and start strategically showing up on Instagram, you need to be in this room. Small group, big breakthroughs—plus waitlist-only bonuses that won’t be available after day one. → Get on the list: elizabethmarberry.com/hot

Links + Resources Mentioned:

• KeywordTool.io
• Answer the Public
• Google Trends

CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST, ELIZABETH MARBERRY:

WORK WITH ELIZABETH

• Apply for your FREE Instagram Breakthrough Session with Elizabeth
• Free guide to Monetize Your IG: Seven Simple and Proven Ways to Finally Make Money on Instagram

Follow Elizabeth Marberry on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook

Please be sure to rate, review and follow the show on Apple podcasts (or wherever you find your podcasts) so we can get this free value to other people who need it.

If you want to grow on Instagram or TikTok, your content has to be shareable, and that starts with better storytelling. Today I’m sitting down with Britney Crossan, queen of scroll-stopping, story-first content. Britney grew her following by over 57,000 people in less than a year using the exact storytelling techniques we talk about in this episode.

We break down how to structure your short-form videos, what kinds of stories hook people immediately, how to move past perfectionism, and the #1 shift that makes content more likely to be saved and shared.

If you’ve ever felt stuck staring at the “Add Caption” screen or wondering why your video isn’t landing, this one’s for you.

What You’ll Learn:

[02:23] The surprising way Britney grew her account by over 57K followers in under a year
 [05:08] Why storytelling is the missing link for most short-form content
 [06:19] How to come up with story-driven content even if you think your life is boring
 [08:31] Britney’s 3-part storytelling formula that hooks people instantly
 [10:44] A common myth that’s keeping you from sharing personal stories
 [12:06] The mindset shift that changed how Britney showed up online
 [14:18] Why your content needs to connect emotionally, not just educate
 [17:05] Tips for creating consistently, even when you feel like you’ve “run out” of stories
 [20:20] The difference between a personal brand and just “being online a lot”
 [23:34] What Britney does when a post flops
 [25:57] Why storytelling builds trust faster than educational posts alone
[29:14] How to batch storytelling content so it doesn’t take over your life

Key Takeaways:

1. Your content isn’t boring, your storytelling just needs structure.
    Use Britney’s 3-part framework to shape your stories: start with the moment of tension, reflect back, and end with a human truth or learning.
2. You don’t need a dramatic story to be memorable.
    The “small” stuff like feeling awkward on a Zoom call or forgetting to hit record can connect deeply when shared authentically.
3. Storytelling content builds emotional connection faster than educational content.
    People might forget your tips, but they’ll remember your stories.
4. The most shareable content is usually the most specific.
    Don’t water down your stories, lean in. The more detailed and emotionally resonant, the more people will share.
5. Batching storytelling content is possible (and freeing).
   Use prompts, keep a story bank, and repurpose stories across platforms with slight tweaks.

Links + Resources Mentioned:

• Get on the Social Success 2026 waitlist
• Grab this free download, 7 Values of Social Media for Business Owners

CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST, ELIZABETH MARBERRY:

WORK WITH ELIZABETH

• Apply for your FREE Instagram Breakthrough Session with Elizabeth
• Free guide to Monetize Your IG: Seven Simple and Proven Ways to Finally Make Money on Instagram

Follow Elizabeth Marberry on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook

Please be sure to rate, review and follow the show on Apple podcasts (or wherever you find your podcasts) so we can get this free value to other people who need it.

Today I’m calling out the single biggest mistake that’s keeping your Instagram stuck: treating your account like a glossy portfolio instead of starting real conversations. I know this mistake well because I made it, too.

Once I shifted my content to speak in the language of my dream client, everything changed, my reels popped off, my audience grew fast, and my content finally converted into leads and sales.

What You’ll Learn:

 [05:11] The #1 mistake that keeps your feed looking pretty but keeps engagement low
 [07:08] How to flip your mindset: speak in their language, not yours
[08:03] Real example of a viral reel built around your ideal client’s emotional reality
[09:59] Why good content is always rooted in empathy (and how to do it)
[10:28] The messaging bridge: connecting their struggles to your solution
[11:56] The simple equation: relatable content → more shares → more visibility → more sales
[12:24] Why content that meets people where they are beats promotional graphics every time
[13:22] How real Hot Reels students used this shift to explode their following & revenue
[14:12] How to join the Hot Reels waitlist (and why you want to get in early)

Key Takeaways:

• Instagram isn’t a portfolio, it’s a conversation. If your content only shows past work or Canva promos, you’re missing the chance to connect.
• Speak in your ideal client’s voice. When your content mirrors their struggles, they feel seen and they’ll stick around.
• Relatable, empathetic content gets shared. Shares boost visibility, which leads to followers and sales.
• Good messaging is the bridge between what your audience wants and what you offer. Build that bridge clearly.
• You don’t need perfection, you need connection.

Links + Resources Mentioned:

Join the Hot Reels waitlist for early access & bonuses: DM HOT or visit ElizabethMarberry.com/hot

CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST, ELIZABETH MARBERRY:

WORK WITH ELIZABETH

• Apply for your FREE Instagram Breakthrough Session with Elizabeth
• Free guide to Monetize Your IG: Seven Simple and Proven Ways to Finally Make Money on Instagram

Follow Elizabeth Marberry on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook

Please be sure to rate, review and follow the show on Apple podcasts (or wherever you find your podcasts) so we can get this free value to other people who need it.

This month, Instagram dropped a game-changing update: your content can now appear directly in Google search results. What does that mean for your small business?

• More visibility
• A longer shelf life for your posts
• And a brand-new, organic traffic channel that doesn’t rely on the algorithm alone.

I’m walking you through why this matters, how to take advantage of it right now, and five practical steps to fully optimize your Instagram for search, including how to find your best keywords, where to put them, and why speaking your dream client’s language is critical. 

Plus, you’ll learn why this shift is about so much more than hashtags… and how it can help you finally build visibility that compounds over time (not just for 24 hours).

What You’ll Learn:

[02:41] Why your content can finally show up in Google (and why it matters)
[05:04] The simple setting you must toggle on to get indexed
[08:52] Three big reasons this is a massive win for small businesses
[14:11] What keywords actually are and how to find yours
[20:21] How Instagram’s algorithm now reads captions, voiceovers, and text on screen
[23:55] Real-world example: turning vague “elevated modern bride” messaging into SEO gold
[25:53] Five key places to put your keywords (and what not to do)
[29:34] Why this makes Instagram more like Pinterest, YouTube, and blogs (and why that’s awesome)
[30:00] How I support clients in implementing this inside Hot Reels, my 12-month content lab

Key Takeaways:

1. Instagram isn’t just an app anymore. Your content can now show up in Google, reaching people who aren’t even on Instagram.
2. Keywords = the phrases your dream clients actually type into Google (think “Hollywood waves Denver” vs. “elevated modern bride”).
3. Use your keywords strategically in your name field, captions, hashtags, text on reels, and even alt text.
4. Instagram’s algorithm has evolved: it now “reads” captions, on-screen text, and even your voiceovers to decide who sees your posts.
5. People who find you via Google search have higher intent, they’re actively looking for the solution you offer.
6. This isn’t just about visibility. It’s about turning traffic into sales. Your sales funnel, DM automations, and optimized bio all matter.

Links + Resources Mentioned:

• Get the free Instagram Visibility Jumpstart Kit or DM me KIT on Instagram
• Join the Hot Reels waitlist for early access & bonuses: DM HOT or visit ElizabethMarberry.com/hot 

CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST, ELIZABETH MARBERRY:

WORK WITH ELIZABETH

• Apply for your FREE Instagram Breakthrough Session with Elizabeth
• Free guide to Monetize Your IG: Seven Simple and Proven Ways to Finally Make Money on Instagram

Follow Elizabeth Marberry on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook

Please be sure to rate, review and follow the show on Apple podcasts (or wherever you find your podcasts) so we can get this free value to other people who need it.

If you’re still telling people to “click the link in bio,” it’s time to upgrade your Instagram strategy. I’m joined by Heston Roberts, a true wizard when it comes to building DM automations that actually move people from your Instagram content into your email list (and eventually, into paying clients).

We go beyond the basics: how DM automation reduces friction, why it can outperform link-in-bio by 60% or more, how to keep things personal and scalable, and what common mistakes to avoid. Plus, Heston shares how to build direct DM-to-email funnels, so your followers never have to leave Instagram.

What You’ll Learn:

[03:22] Why DM automation is a game changer for content that works while you sleep
[08:34] The problem with “click the link in bio” (and why it lowers conversions)
[13:41] How DM automations help grow your following through better engagement
[16:57] Step-by-step: turning DMs into an email funnel without leaving Instagram
[21:40] The truth about small accounts: why it still works with low engagement
[26:17] Mistakes to avoid: over-general keywords, automations that feel spammy, and more
[31:06] Using deep links to drive traffic directly into apps like YouTube
[39:45] How to keep it personal (and still scalable) with voice notes and custom automations
[45:58] Heston’s subscription for creators who want to master ManyChat and chat funnels

Key Takeaways:

1. DM automation reduces friction: instead of making followers stop scrolling, visit your profile, and figure out your links, it meets them right where they already are—your DMs.
2. You can build email funnels inside Instagram: ask followers for their name & email in the DMs, sync to your email platform, and send them your freebie without them leaving the app.
3. ManyChat (our favorite tool) is a Meta business partner, which means it’s approved and safe to use directly with Instagram.
4. Even small accounts can see ROI: you don’t need thousands of comments—sometimes one new subscriber or client makes the whole system worth it.
5. Use specific keywords like “getpod” or “hotguide” to trigger automations and avoid accidental triggers. And yes, keep it fun, like clickable buttons!

Links + Resources Mentioned:

• Get a FREE MONTH of ManyChat Pro! Sign up here.
• Follow Heston on Instagram
• Subscribe to Heston’s YouTube Channel

CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST, ELIZABETH MARBERRY:

WORK WITH ELIZABETH

• Apply for your FREE Instagram Breakthrough Session with Elizabeth
• Free guide to Monetize Your IG: Seven Simple and Proven Ways to Finally Make Money on Instagram

Follow Elizabeth Marberry on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook

Please be sure to rate, review and follow the show on Apple podcasts (or wherever you find your podcasts) so we can get this free value to other people who need it.

Still relying on “click the link in my bio”? There’s a better way. I’m breaking down how to use DM automation to grow your email list, increase engagement, and drive leads from your Instagram content, all without being glued to your phone. You’ll learn why this strategy works better than traditional link-in-bio methods, how I use it in both of my businesses, and exactly how to get started (even if you’ve never heard of ManyChat before).

What You’ll Learn:
[04:48] Why “link in bio” is dead (and how DM automation works better)
[07:36] The step-by-step breakdown of what actually happens when someone clicks your bio
[10:27] Why Instagram prefers links in DMs vs. external traffic
[13:13] How keywords boost engagement and reach (and why your caption matters)
[17:53] A basic example of how I grow my email list using DM automation
[19:17] The power of sending links, freebies, and lead magnets in the DMs
[21:40] What to do if you’re not getting comments — and how Hot Reels can help
[23:32] Why now is the best time to get on the Hot Reels waitlist for fall 2025

Key Takeaways:

• Click the link in bio? Nope.
   It adds friction and kills your conversion rate. DM automation converts 46% better on average.
• Your content can work for you while you sleep.
   DM automation makes your Instagram content do double-duty, building your list and growing your audience without extra effort.
• You don’t need a huge audience for this to work.
   Even one comment can bring in one perfect-fit lead. It’s not about volume, it’s about alignment.
• Your followers are on Instagram. Keep them there.
   The more you can reduce steps, the more people will take action. DM automation keeps them in-platform and gets you results.
• Still not seeing results from your content? It might be time for support.
   Hot Reels is where I help entrepreneurs create content that actually converts, consistently.

Links + Resources Mentioned:

• Try ManyChat PRO - First month FREE! 
• Join the HOT REELS: 12-MONTH IG CONTENT LAB waitlist!
• My episode on The Social Media Marketing Talk Show Podcast: Instagram Updates: Edits App, Comment Filters, Grid Features, and More

CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST, ELIZABETH MARBERRY:

WORK WITH ELIZABETH

• Apply for your FREE Instagram Breakthrough Session with Elizabeth
• Free guide to Monetize Your IG: Seven Simple and Proven Ways to Finally Make Money on Instagram

Follow Elizabeth Marberry on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook

Please be sure to rate, review and follow the show on Apple podcasts (or wherever you find your podcasts) so we can get this free value to other people who need it.

Reels are still your best friend in 2025 when it comes to reach, impressions, and visibility on Instagram, and I’ve got the stats to prove it. In this final episode of our 3-part growth hacks series, I’m walking you through exactly how to make Reels work for you and your brand, even if you feel awkward on camera.

I’m sharing how to reverse engineer Reels to plug directly into your sales funnel, the one thing Reels do better than any other format, and why short-form storytelling isn’t just about “going viral” — it’s about helping your dream clients feel seen.

If you’ve been resisting video, this is your permission slip to show up imperfectly, get strategic, and let Reels do the heavy lifting in your marketing.

What You’ll Learn:
[01:51] Why Reels still dominate reach and engagement in 2025
[04:41] The remix strategy that’s outperforming other formats
[06:05] How storytelling makes your content more human and more effective
[09:58] Why raw, imperfect content builds more trust than polished videos
[12:48] How to reverse-engineer Reels to plug into your sales funnel
[18:31] The DM automation tool that builds your email list while you sleep
[19:57] A sneak peek at next week’s episode with a DM automation expert
[22:49] How to use Reels to connect, serve, and sell without burnout

Key Takeaways:

1. Reels still give the highest reach on Instagram. With 2x the impressions of static posts and 30.8% average reach, Reels are your fastest path to visibility — if you know how to use them.
2. Remixes are an underrated engagement strategy. Reels with collaborators see 41% more engagement, and remixing trending content with your own spin can massively expand your reach.
3. Short-form storytelling = brand trust. You don’t have to be funny or go viral. You just have to be real. Stories help your audience feel seen, understood, and connected to your brand.
4. You don’t need a video team. You just need to start. Raw, low-lift Reels filmed on your iPhone are performing better than polished content. The goal is to connect, not impress.
5. DM automation is the visibility upgrade you didn’t know you needed. Want to grow your list and deliver free offers without lifting a finger? This episode gives you a sneak peek of the automation tool I use every week.

Links + Resources Mentioned:

• Get started on Manychat today
• Listen: 5 Underrated Instagram Growth Strategies That Boos

CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST, ELIZABETH MARBERRY:

WORK WITH ELIZABETH

• Apply for your FREE Instagram Breakthrough Session with Elizabeth
• Free guide to Monetize Your IG: Seven Simple and Proven Ways to Finally Make Money on Instagram

Follow Elizabeth Marberry on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook

Please be sure to rate, review and follow the show on Apple podcasts (or wherever you find your podcasts) so we can get this free value to other people who need it.

If your Instagram growth has stalled or you’re creating content that no one’s seeing, this episode is for you. In part two of our three-part growth series, I’m breaking down five underused Instagram strategies that are working right now in 2025 — including the truth about collabs, remix reels, outbound engagement, and how to use your platforms to boost IG followers (without sounding desperate). 

What You’ll Learn:

• [01:52] Why collaboration is still one of the fastest ways to grow your audience
• [05:17] How to use Instagram’s collab feature properly (and what Meta recommends)
• [09:34] How remixing reels got my studio account 14 M+ views
• [12:41] Going live with aligned creators to build relationships and visibility
• [15:26] Why outbound engagement still works (when you do it right)
• [18:09] The “invisible ask” most people forget — and how to do it with heart
• [21:20] How to boldly ask for visibility without sounding cringy
• [22:49] Behind the scenes of my Hot Reels program and private mentorship offers

Key Takeaways:

• Instagram collabs aren’t just cute, they’re conversion tools. Learn how to use Instagram’s collab feature strategically and why the account with the bigger following should host.
• Remix reels are still one of the most powerful visibility hacks. Use them to ride existing engagement, but add your own spin.
• Instagram Lives still work — especially when done with aligned brands. Local businesses? This is a missed opportunity you need to explore.
• Outbound engagement is free visibility. Leaving thoughtful comments in your niche can attract ideal followers (and create real relationships).
• You’re probably forgetting the easiest CTA: ask for the follow. Your email list, Facebook audience, and other platforms can be powerful amplifiers, if you remember to ask.

Links + Resources Mentioned:

• Replay: The Reel Remix Strategy Behind My 8.8M View Viral Video (Part 2)
• My Guest Episode on the Social Media Marketing Podcast: Instagram Content Strategy: Attracting Quality Leads and Sales
• How I Manifested This Opportunity: What It Really Takes to Create Bold Visibility (and Attract High-Level Opportunities)
• Join the Hot Reels 12-Month IG Content Lab Waitlist
• Apply for a Free Instagram Breakthrough Session

CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST, ELIZABETH MARBERRY:

WORK WITH ELIZABETH

• Apply for your FREE Instagram Breakthrough Session with Elizabeth
• Free guide to Monetize Your IG: Seven Simple and Proven Ways to Finally Make Money on Instagram

Follow Elizabeth Marberry on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook

Please be sure to rate, review and follow the show on Apple podcasts (or wherever you find your podcasts) so we can get this free value to other people who need it.

Welcome to Part One of my three-part mini-series on Instagram growth hacks that work right now in 2025. Instagram has changed a lot since I first recorded this episode last August, from new features like trial reels to essential updates in strategy and messaging. 

We’re kicking things off with a back-to-basics reminder of what’s still working, plus new insights to help you grow faster and more strategically. If you’ve been frustrated with slow growth or content that’s not converting, this one’s for you.

What You’ll Learn
[01:11] The 3 timeless pillars of Instagram growth that still matter most
[03:59] Why narrowing your focus makes your content stronger and more effective
[07:11] Why you are the it factor behind your brand (not the algorithm)
[08:29] How to do market research that actually improves your messaging
[12:40] What trial reels are and why they’re a must-use growth tool in 2025
[14:32] The surprising mindset shift trial reels unlock for overthinking creators
[15:57] A real-life example of A/B testing a hook and what it revealed
[17:22] The truth about redundancy in your content (hint: it’s a good thing)

Key Takeaways:

1. Consistency is still queen. The more reps you put in, the better your content (and results) get.
2. Niche down your content. Narrowing your focus doesn’t box you in, it makes content creation simpler and more strategic.
3. Market research is non-negotiable. If you want engagement, you need to speak in your clients’ words, not your expert language.
4. Trial reels = your new BFF. Use them to A/B test messaging and visuals before posting to your main feed.
5. Redundancy isn’t a problem, it’s a strategy. Don’t be afraid to reuse hooks or test different stories with the same message.

Links Mentioned in This Episode:
Apply for a Free Instagram Breakthrough Session

Next Week: Part Two of the Instagram Growth Series
We’re diving into how DM automation, AI tools, and smarter workflows are helping businesses sell faster and show up way more efficiently. Make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss it!

CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST, ELIZABETH MARBERRY:

WORK WITH ELIZABETH

• Apply for your FREE Instagram Breakthrough Session with Elizabeth
• Free guide to Monetize Your IG: Seven Simple and Proven Ways to Finally Make Money on Instagram

Follow Elizabeth Marberry on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook

Please be sure to rate, review and follow the show on Apple podcasts (or wherever you find your podcasts) so we can get this free value to other people who need it.