The Social Circle

This week, we’re sitting down with a creator who’s been in the social media world for over 13 years—and she’s spilling everything brands don’t tell you; Courtney Canfield.

From freelancing in college to building a viral pet account and managing 150+ brand deals, she's seen all sides of influencer marketing.

We talk about:

• Red flags on influencer platforms (and which ones to avoid)

• Why UGC is the easiest entry point for paid brand work

• Building content that connects and converts

• Staying true to your voice vs. chasing trends

• Why even seasoned pros struggle with growth in 2025

• How to actually test and tweak your content with intention

🎁 BONUS: Get 30% off her best-selling guides; The 82 Influencer Platforms Directory + AI for Contracts, using code SOCIALCIRCLE30

Tools & Resources:• Influencer Platform Guide• AI for Contracts

Follow Courtney on IG

Repurpose.io – Automate your content distribution

Welcome to The Social Circle!

The podcast where content creators, entrepreneurs, and digital storytellers come together to grow, learn, and make an impact.

Hosted by Candace and Jennifer, each week, we break down the latest social media trends, share expert content creation strategies, and highlight real success stories from our Social Circle VIP community.

From insider tips on what’s working now to celebrating wins from our members, every episode is packed with actionable advice to help you build your brand and connect with your audience—whether you're just getting started or refining your strategy.

💡 Join The Social Circle VIP Community – a place where creators get the support, tools, and real strategies to grow with confidence: https://www.skool.com/thesocialcircle-vip/about

🎙 New episodes every week! Subscribe now: https://www.youtube.com/@Thesocialcirclevip

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0jZzLdBW9js6TklQHSU6Wg?si=mtCJuvpJRjG9YKm5gfd_8w 

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-social-circle/id1797627683

Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/068b8797-3aa8-47e5-89fb-d017cf01d863/the-social-circle 

iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/268858070/

JENNIFER OFFICIAL LINKS:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jenniferradolak 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jen_radolak/  

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jenniferradolak 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Hellothere85 

CANDACE OFFICIAL LINKS:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@justtheblendedwells 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justtheblendedwells/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justaflchick

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/candace.monicaa

** This video was not created for children under the age of 13**

Affiliate Disclaimer: Some of these links may be affiliate links, meaning if you purchase, we may make a small percentage of the sale.  This doesn’t affect you as the buyer, you will not pay more because of an affiliate link.

FTC: This video is not sponsored

Whether it’s trolls, unsolicited opinions, or flat-out hate—every creator faces negativity at some point. In this episode of The Social Circle, we’re getting real about how to handle negative comments without letting them wreck your confidence (or your content).

Candace and Jennifer share their personal experiences, what’s worked (and what hasn’t), and how to stay focused even when the comments get loud. From building your “response bank” to knowing when to block, respond, or just protect your peace—we’ve got practical tips to help you navigate the noise.

We also highlight creators who’ve turned criticism into connection and show you how to use online hate as a tool for growth. Plus: a behind-the-scenes look at our Mindset Reset course inside the VIP Circle and how it helps creators build real confidence.

🎯 Topics we cover:

• Why online criticism happens (and what it really means)

• The difference between trolling and feedback

• Mental resilience strategies that actually help

• What to say—or not say—when negativity hits your comments

Let’s talk numbers, but not the kind that make your eyes glaze over.

In this episode of The Social Circle, Candace and Jennifer break down the REAL social media metrics that matter. We’re calling out vanity metrics and showing you how to actually use your analytics to grow your brand, build a community, and create content with purpose.

Inside this episode:
✔️ The top 3 metrics every creator should check weekly
✔️ Why high views don’t always equal success
✔️ How to tweak your content when something’s off
✔️ What Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube metrics really mean
✔️ Smart ways to repurpose content based on data
✔️ Real examples from creators inside our VIP group

Whether you're just getting started or trying to refine your strategy, this episode will help you stop guessing and start growing with intention.

🎁 Want a free profile review or help reading your own numbers?

💡 Tools & Resources:
Repurpose.io – Automate your content distribution
👉 https://repurpose.io?fpr=311209&fp_sid=tsc

🎧 Want to go deeper? Join The Social Circle VIP – a supportive space with tools, trainings, and real strategies to grow with confidence:
https://www.skool.com/thesocialcircle-vip/about

Hosted by Candace Wells and Jennifer Radolak
Follow us for more content tips, strategy, and behind-the-scenes:

Candace:
YouTube: @justtheblendedwells
Instagram: @justtheblendedwells
TikTok: @justaflchick

Jennifer:
YouTube: @jenniferradolak
Instagram: @jen_radolak
TikTok: @jenniferradolak

New episodes every week. Subscribe and follow to stay in the circle!

Affiliate links may be included. This episode is not sponsored. Not intended for children under 13.

Ready to grow your email list without the overwhelm?

In this episode, Candace and Jennifer break down how to create a simple, strategic freebie that actually works. From choosing the right type of lead magnet to writing a clear landing page and promoting it effectively, this is your no-fluff guide to building a list that turns followers into real leads.

We’re also sharing what doesn’t work, why clarity beats creativity, and how one viral freebie changed everything.

🎯 Plus:

• Our top 3 beginner-friendly freebie ideas

• Where to host your freebie for free

Today’s a milestone moment for us, one of our podcast goals actually came true: welcoming Shannon McKinstrie inside the Circle.

Shannon is a social media strategist who helps business owners ditch the pressure and show up online in a way that actually feels good. No fluff. No gimmicks. Just real content that connects and converts.

In this episode, we talk about:

• Why we’ve been (respectfully) obsessed with Shannon

• Her 4 H content strategy

• Why mindset matters more than most people admit

• How to stay consistent without burning out

• What’s actually working on Instagram right now

• The truth about viral content vs. sustainable growth

We laugh, we get real, and we share stories about the messy middle that nobody talks about.

This episode is your reminder: you’re not behind and your story matters.

Resources from the Episode:

• Shannon on IG: @shannonmckinstrie

• The Good Content Podcast: Listen here

• Reels Lab Membership: Join here

• Shannon’s Founder Story: Watch here

• Repurpose.io (affiliate): Try it here

🎧 Follow us for weekly episodes that mix strategy, mindset, and storytelling.

🎙 New episodes every week! Subscribe nowSpotifyApple Podcasts Amazon PodcastsiHeartRadio

• YouTube: @thesocialcirclevip

• VIP Community: Join The Social Circle

Candace

• IG: @justamarketingchick

• TikTok: @justaflchick

• YouTube: @justtheblendedwells

• FB: Candace Wells

Jennifer

• IG: @jen_radolak

• TikTok: @jenniferradolak

• YouTube: @jenniferradolak

• FB: Jennifer Radolak

Not made for children under 13. Some links may be affiliate links. This episode is not sponsored.

Think you need fancy gear or a production team to create great content? Think again.

In this episode of The Social Circle, Candace and Jennifer share how they built professional-looking content using natural light, their phones, and a few smart tools.

From editing apps like CapCut and Canva to budget gear, they break down what to actually invest in and what to skip.

What You’ll Learn:• DIY recording setups that actually work• Our favorite free and low-cost apps• Why “done is better than perfect”• How to shift from consumer to creator• What to buy now vs. what can wait• Sneak peek at Instagram’s new “EDITS” app• The funnel mistake we made (and how we fixed it)

Tools We Mentioned:• Andobil Tripod• Neewer Ring Light• Our Amazon Storefront• CapCut• Canva• InShot• ChatGPT• Luma AI• Repurpose.io

👥 Join the Social Circle VIPTry our content creator community free for 7 days:👉 Join here

🎧 Listen on other platforms:• Apple Podcasts• Amazon Music• iHeartRadio

📱 Connect With Us:
Candace – Instagram | TikTok | Facebook
Jennifer – Instagram | TikTok | Facebook

Affiliate Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. If you purchase through them, we may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. This episode is not sponsored and is not intended for children under 13.

Shadow banning? Not a thing.

In this episode of The Social Circle, Candace and Jen break down the real reasons your content might not be performing—and it has nothing to do with an invisible Shadow ban.

You’ll learn:

• Why blaming the algorithm is holding you back

• What actually impacts visibility and reach

• The key metrics to track (and how to use them)

• The truth about consistency, SEO, and engagement in 2025

• Why copy-paste strategies aren’t sustainable (and what to do instead)

We also share insights directly from Instagram head Adam Mosseri, the Meta Creators Group, and our own results across Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook.

🎯 If you're ready to stop guessing and start growing—this one's for you.

💡 Tools & Resources:
Repurpose.io – Automate your content distribution👉 https://repurpose.io?fpr=311209&fp_sid=tsc

🎙 Welcome to The Social Circle!The podcast where content creators, entrepreneurs, and digital storytellers come to grow, learn, and make an impact.

Hosted by Candace and Jennifer, each weekly episode breaks down trending topics, shares practical strategies, and features real stories from our Social Circle VIP community.

Join us and gain the support, tools, and confidence you need to thrive online.
👉 Join The Social Circle VIP

🎧 Listen & Subscribe Everywhere:
YouTube: @thesocialcirclevip
Spotify: Listen Here
Apple Podcasts: Subscribe
Amazon Music: Follow
iHeartRadio: Stream

👯‍♀️ Follow Candace & Jen:

Candace:
YouTube: @justtheblendedwells
Instagram: @justamarketingchick
TikTok: @justaflchick
Facebook: Candace Monica

Jennifer:
YouTube: @jenniferradolak
Instagram: @jen_radolak
TikTok: @jenniferradolak
Facebook: Jennifer’s Page

Disclaimer:
This content is not created for children under the age of 13.
Some links may be affiliate links. Purchasing through them supports the podcast at no extra cost to you.
This episode is not sponsored.

Want to work with brands as a content creator, even if you're just starting out?

In this episode of The Social Circle, Candace and Jennifer break down the exact steps to land brand partnerships that actually stick. From building a media kit to pitching with confidence, we’re sharing what’s working right now (and what to avoid—looking at you, scammy Amazon DMs).We’re pulling from real-life experience, sharing creator success stories, and talking about why micro-influencers are winning in 2025. If you’re ready to stop waiting and start pitching, this episode is for you.Welcome to The Social Circle!The podcast where content creators, entrepreneurs, and digital storytellers come together to grow, learn, and make an impact.Hosted by Candace and Jennifer, each week, we break down the latest social media trends, share expert content creation strategies, and highlight real success stories from our Social Circle VIP community.From insider tips on what’s working now to celebrating wins from our members, every episode is packed with actionable advice to help you build your brand and connect with your audience—whether you're just getting started or refining your strategy.💡 Join The Social Circle VIP Community – a place where creators get the support, tools, and real strategies to grow with confidence: https://www.skool.com/thesocialcircle-vip/about🎙 New episodes every week! Subscribe now: https://www.youtube.com/@ThesocialcirclevipSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0jZzLdBW9js6TklQHSU6Wg?si=mtCJuvpJRjG9YKm5gfd_8w Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-social-circle/id1797627683 Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/068b8797-3aa8-47e5-89fb-d017cf01d863/the-social-circle iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/268858070/JENNIFER OFFICIAL LINKS:YouTube: @jenniferradolak Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jen_radolak/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jenniferradolak Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Hellothere85 CANDACE OFFICIAL LINKS:YouTube: @justtheblendedwells Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justamarketingchick/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justaflchick Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/candace.monicaa ** This video was not created for children under the age of 13**Affiliate Disclaimer: Some of these links may be affiliate links, meaning if you purchase, we may make a small percentage of the sale. This doesn’t affect you as the buyer, you will not pay more because of an affiliate link.FTC: This video is not sponsored📣 Inside this episode: 00:00 – Why brand partnerships are more accessible than you think03:20 – Circle Hack: How to build a media kit that stands out08:45 – Step 1: How to research the right brands for YOU14:10 – Step 2: Writing a pitch that gets noticed (without big numbers)22:30 – Step 3: Delivering value and building repeat collabs31:00 – Social Spotlight: Why brands LOVE micro-influencers36:25 – Inside the VIP Circle: Real member wins + next steps40:00 – The mindset you need to grow your creator business

Feeling overwhelmed by the content grind? You’re not alone, and you don’t have to choose between growth and burnout. In this episode, Candace and Jennifer share real strategies to help creators and business owners build a sustainable approach to content that actually works long-term.We’re covering:- Why consistency doesn't mean constantly- Tips for batching, repurposing, & planning content with ease- How to spot burnout before it hits- The rise of "soft posting" and what it means for creator work-life balance- A VIP Circle success story from a member who found peace and growth by changing their scheduleWhether you're creating for clients or building your personal brand, this episode is your permission slip to take a breath and build a strategy that supports your life.👇 Let us know in the comments how you’re adjusting your schedule to avoid burnout!💡 Tools & Resources:Repurpose.io – Automate your content distributionVIP Member Feature (Alexa) – Check out Alexa’s contentConnect with Alexa inside the VIP CircleWelcome to The Social Circle!The podcast where content creators, entrepreneurs, and digital storytellers come together to grow, learn, and make an impact.Hosted by Candace and Jennifer, each week, we break down the latest social media trends, share expert content creation strategies, and highlight real success stories from our Social Circle VIP community.From insider tips on what’s working now to celebrating wins from our members, every episode is packed with actionable advice to help you build your brand and connect with your audience—whether you're just getting started or refining your strategy.💡 Join The Social Circle VIP Community – a place where creators get the support, tools, and real strategies to grow with confidence🎙 New episodes every week! Subscribe now: https://www.youtube.com/@ThesocialcirclevipSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0jZzLdBW9js6TklQHSU6Wg?si=mtCJuvpJRjG9YKm5gfd_8w Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-social-circle/id1797627683 Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/068b8797-3aa8-47e5-89fb-d017cf01d863/the-social-circle iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/268858070/JENNIFER OFFICIAL LINKS:YouTube: @jenniferradolak Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jen_radolak/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jenniferradolak Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Hellothere85 CANDACE OFFICIAL LINKS:YouTube: @justtheblendedwells Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justamarketingchick/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justaflchick Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/candace.monicaa ** This video was not created for children under the age of 13**Affiliate Disclaimer: Some of these links may be affiliate links, meaning if you purchase, we may make a small percentage of the sale. This doesn’t affect you as the buyer, you will not pay more because of an affiliate link.FTC: This video is not sponsored