September Reset + Building Community

Happy September! 🎉 For me, September feels like a mini New Year — a chance to reset, refresh, and get back on track.

In This Episode:

• September Theme: Inside the Studio, we’re focusing on building community — creating content that connects your audience to YOU and to each other.
• Why It Matters: TikTok is shifting, and being proactive (not reactive) is key. Strengthening your community now protects your future.
• Content Tips:
  • Spark conversations in the comments — engagement between followers builds a sense of belonging.
  • Go live — guide discussions and lead like a community moderator.
  • Create “safe spaces” where your audience can connect with each other, not just you.
  • Think long-term — use newsletters, DMs, or other platforms as a backup plan.
• Studio Wins: Members are seeing real growth, viral videos, and new opportunities by applying these strategies!

JOIN US HERE!!!

• Unsponsored By:
  • Justin’s Almond Butter (cinnamon flavor = yes please) 🥜
  • Ninja Creamy — homemade healthy ice cream that tastes like the real deal 🍦

This month is all about growing your own community — join the Studio to learn, share, and celebrate wins together.

Content gear that is not sponsored, but will help you level up your content game!

Click here listen to the full debrief on the scam that took my pride along with 15 hours of my life: https://yourstruly.transistor.fm/episodes/86-did-we-just-get-scammed

Click here to view it on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bINNjxirRBE&list=PLlBCxxLwC-ffe2WHY4ckPCoy3-cQ-rSAX

Segment 1: Unsponsored By (Products I Love)
• Kiehl’s Superbly Efficient Antiperspirant & Deodorant Cream
o Why it’s different from roll-ons
o Personal story of borrowing another deodorant = never again!
o Not sponsored, just a long-time loyal fan
• Lume Whole Body Deodorant
o Praise for the founder who changed the industry
o Best for people with stronger odor issues
o Applicator options (cream rub-on vs roll-on)
o Prefers unscented
 
Segment 2: New Tech Find
• Snaply Lens (Screen Mirroring Attachment)
o Clips/suction to back of phone for back-camera filming
o Lets you see yourself framed properly without using front camera
o Why it’s useful for creators
o Not an affiliate link — just a practical tool
 
Segment 3: Core Gear for Creators

• Tripods

o Sunpak + selfie stick topper → long-time staple:
o SmallRig tripods (different sizes & pros/cons)
 White (discontinued), black version still available
 Tilt limitations on some models
 Bluetooth clicker = convenient
o Ring light + tripod combo (good for selfies, glasses wearers can bounce light off ceiling)

• Microphones
o Started with wired lavalier mic (trustworthy, simple)
o Now using Hollyland Lark M2 wireless mic
 Dual transmitters for interviews
 Magnetic clips for flexible placement
 Works with iPhone, Android, laptop
o Audio tip: always set to mono (not stereo)

• Lighting
o Prefers natural daylight
o If shooting at night: Neewer LED panel (small, adjustable warmth & brightness)

• Extras / Nice-to-Haves
o Stylus (for editing or precision work)
o Screen mirroring tools (like Snaply)
o Stabilizers (recommend Insta360 stabilizer, not DJI Osmo — unreliable in personal experience)
 
Segment 4: Big Picture Reminder
• You don’t need all the gear to start creating
• Viral content often made with nothing more than a phone
• Gear can support but won’t replace good storytelling & editing skills
• Take small steps: start with one useful item, build up over time
• If you love gear & want to go “all in” at once — that’s okay too!

I’ve got some fun things to share with you today, and then we’re diving into a topic I think is going to be really pressing soon: What happens if TikTok goes away?

Now, I don’t want this to sound like doom and gloom—it’s actually the perfect wake-up call to think about your bigger social media strategy. Even when platforms shift, there are things you can (and should) be doing to protect your growth, your community, and your creativity.

But before we get into that, let’s start with today’s Unsponsored Buy—a favorite new find that I think you’ll love.

📝 Episode Outline

1. Unsponsored Buy of the Week

• Muji (minimalist Japanese design store)
  • Toothbrush holder + trays
  • Sleek soap dispensers
• Blueland foaming soap tablets
  • Eco-friendly, dissolves in water
  • Multiple scents, sustainable packaging
• Why these small, design-focused details bring joy

2. Main Topic: What If TikTok Goes Away?

• Why these “threats” are a wake-up call for creators
• Reminder: don’t panic, but do prepare

3. Current Strategy

• Keep posting on TikTok until change actually happens
• Use this time to:
  • Grow brand awareness
  • Strengthen audience connection
  • Give followers reasons to follow you elsewhere

4. Platform Backups

• YouTube Shorts, Instagram Reels, Facebook Reels
• Scheduling content to make cross-posting easier (Sunday night batch uploads, schedulers)
• Why “being everywhere” gives you options and insurance

5. Community Building Beyond TikTok

• Move your audience to owned spaces (email list, communities, YouTube channel)
• Personal stories of shifting audience into newsletters + The Socialize Studio
• Why a strong community will follow you wherever you go

6. Mindset Shift

• Don’t obsess over views—low views may still mean new people discovering you
• Consistency matters more than quick wins
• Example: accidental YouTube monetization just from persistence

7. What’s Next in the Studio

• September focus:
  • How to move audiences between platforms
  • Building deeper community
  • Strategies for newsletters + monetization
• Invitation to join the Socialize Studio for real-time discussions and expert sessions

8. Wrap-Up

• Stay consistent. Keep creating.
• Don’t fear low numbers—show up for your community.
• Platforms may shift, but creativity and connection last.

🎙️ Welcome back to The Socialize Strategy — the podcast where we talk social media, creator life, and all the behind-the-scenes bits most people don’t tell you.

Before we get into today’s strategy, it’s time for my “unsponsored by” picks — aka products I genuinely use and love without a penny in my pocket from the brand. This week’s lineup includes:

• Oura Ring — why I love it, how it tracks my sleep and steps, and the surprising brand deal offer that made me say, “No thanks.”
• Purely Elizabeth Granola — my forever favorite snack and the wild small-world story about how I used to share an office floor with Elizabeth herself.

Then we dive into today’s topic: Why you should post like social media is your diary.

In this episode you’ll hear:

• What “posting like it’s your diary” really means (spoiler: it’s not writing Dear Diary).
• Why unplanned, authentic posts often outperform your polished content.
• How to capture raw, relatable moments that build loyalty and connection.
• The key engagement metrics that actually help content go viral.
• How personal storytelling can make your audience feel like they know you — and why that’s powerful.
• A moving reminder that even a small audience can have a big impact.

Grab your coffee, your camera, and maybe some granola, and let’s get into it.

The Vlog Evolution

The “Unsponsored By” segment kicks off the episode with two daily must-haves:

o   Harney & Sons Hot Cinnamon Spice Tea – Helen's forever favorite (no sugar needed, think chai vibes)

o   Fellow Tea Kettle – Sleek, fast, and perfect for daily tea-making (she swears it boils faster!)

🎥 Main Topic: Why You Need to Start Vlogging

·       Vlogging creates connection. It gives your audience a behind-the-scenes peek into your life or creative process.

·       You don’t have to love traditional vlogging (e.g., voiceover style) – there are many ways to vlog:

o   On-camera storytelling

o   Voiceover with visuals

o   Music + text overlays

o   “Come with me” style day-in-the-life

o   Trendy formats like timestamp vlogs, narrator voice, or POV

📊 Social Media Algorithm Nuggets:

·       Top 2 performance metrics:

1.     Shares – When your video gets forwarded, it supercharges its reach.

2.     Saves – More powerful than likes or comments.

·       If people relate to it, they’re more likely to share it.

o   Example: Trader Joe’s parking lot spoof = highly shareable because it’s universally relatable.

🧠 Studio Challenge: Vlogging Month

·       This month’s Muthership Studio Challenge: Vlogging (in all its forms).

·       Weekly lessons include:

o   How to structure a voiceover vlog

o   On-camera & music-only styles

o   Comparing which version performs better

·       Each member can:

o   Watch lessons at their own pace

o   Share their videos, get feedback, and keep improving

o   Repeat challenges in new ways to build skills and momentum

💡 Key Takeaways:

·       Vlogging isn’t just one thing anymore. It’s evolved – so should your content.

·       Don’t overthink the format. Just start showing real moments.

·       Repetition leads to confidence and improvement – practice truly makes progress.

·       The studio is now The Muthership Creator Studio – revamped and rebranded for content creators who want to grow consistently and creatively.

✨ Final Note:

·       If you haven’t joined the Muthership Studio or tried the searchable preview, now’s the time.

https://socialize-studio.mn.co

🎯 Main Topic: Why You Should Do Trends (Yes, Even You)

Helen breaks down the why behind occasionally participating in social media trends — even if you're hesitant:

✅ Reasons to Embrace Trends:

• Staying current: Shows you're tuned into the platform's culture.
• Algorithm boost: Trends get pushed further — they work.
• Community building: Viewers relate more when they see familiar content done your way.
• Creative nudge: Trends help you out of ruts and spark new content ideas.
• Visibility: Trends expand your reach — even imperfect ones can go viral.

🧪 Real Examples:

• Helen’s own “Don’t Cha” trend videos crushed it in public spaces (airport, beach, set).
• Studio members like Vicky and Harley Girl gained thousands to millions of views using the trend — even if they didn’t do it “perfectly.”

🔁 Helen's Advice:

• Don’t overdo trends — but aim for once a week if possible.
• Keep a folder of easy-to-do trends on hand for when time or energy is low.
• Let trends reflect your niche — not dilute it.

🧪 Unsponsored Items of the Week:

1. NAD Supplement – Inspired by TikTok, Helen shares how this has possibly improved her skin and overall wellness.
2. Creatine Gummies – Watermelon & orange flavors; supports brain health, memory, and neuroprotection, especially helpful for those 60+.
3. IZIPIZI Readers – Stylish, comfy readers that fit over contacts and offer a stylish, practical alternative to drugstore glasses.

🔍 Studio Update:

• NEW: Studio Free Preview Space!
  Access the full beginner TikTok course + all free tutorials.
  ✨ Searchable by keyword (e.g., “green screen,” “stop motion”)
  🔗 [Link in show notes]

Wrap-Up:
Trends aren’t about looking young — they’re about knowing the social media language. Be playful, be visible, be current. You’re the main character.

🎧 See you next week!

🔑 In This episode Helen shares tips for going live, how to deal with the nerves if  it's your first time and why you should just do it anyway.

And here are the 3 pieces of equipment that are worth the investment if you want to up your gams:

**Wireless Hollyland Lark M2 Microphone Set: https://amzn.to/4bwInBu

**SmallRig Tripod with remote: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1897565-REG/smallrig_5291_st30_lite_one_touch_deploy.html

**Neewer LED Light: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08VGJ1TK9/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?_encoding=UTF8&%3Bpsc=1&camp=1789&creative=9325&ie=UTF8&linkCode=ur2&linkId=806eee74b77c737f883af590f3e68310&tag=themuthersh0f-20 

Live Tips:
- What to prep ahead of time to avoid awkward silence
- Why it helps to post a video right before going live (and how it boosts visibility)
- Ideas for interactive engagement: trivia, viewer questions, and casual prompts
- How to use your lives as content clips for your feed
- Why it’s okay to tell your audience you’re nervous—and how they’ll actually help
- What to do about trolls, and how to use moderators to protect your space
- Smart ways to reflect and self-assess so every live gets better

🛠 Tools + Tips:

How to promote your live ahead of time (email list, reminders, profile alerts)
What to do after your live: saving clips on TikTok or Instagram for future content

A simple mindset shift: pretend only 3 people will show up—and go for it anyway

💬 Bonus Highlights:
A funny story from a live coaching session in the studio with new creators
Why one brand’s email reminder strategy stood out—and how you can replicate it

A sneak peek at some fun shoots I did this week (including a magical legging change 👖✨)

🎧 Stay Tuned:
Next week, I’ll be wrapping up the podcasting tutorial series inside the Studio! You’ll get step-by-step instructions on how to edit, upload, and publish your podcast to all platforms—no fluff, just clear direction.

✨ Episode Overview:

In this heartfelt and information-packed solo episode, Helen kicks things off with a meaningful story sparked by a letter and a stack of old cards—reminders of the deep, lasting connections she’s built through her content and community. She then dives into two of her most-used (unsponsored!) products that make her content-creating life easier, and shifts into a hands-on mini-masterclass: tips for getting the most out of your phone’s camera to improve your content instantly.

🛠️ Helen’s Unsponsored Product Picks:

1. Dyson Airwrap
   • Daily staple for Helen
   • Works great on thick hair
   • Comes with multiple attachments (round brush, curlers, etc.)
   • Honest review: No complaints—except clean your filter regularly!
2. VRURC Power Bank
   • A content creator must-have
   • Charges iPhone 4–5 times
   • Built-in cords for multiple devices
   • Heavy and bulky—but totally worth it
   • Perfect for full-day shoots without access to power

📱 Phone Content Tips You Probably Aren’t Using (But Should Be):

• Clean Your Lens
  Smudgy lenses = blurry content. Simple but essential.
• Turn on Do Not Disturb While Filming
  Interruptions can ruin your footage. Don’t forget to turn it off afterward.
• Use Gridlines for Better Framing
  Help your eye compose more balanced, level shots.
• Zoom with Your Feet
  Don’t pinch to zoom—walk closer to preserve quality. (And don’t ever Zoom if someone else hands you their phone!)
• Lock Exposure and Focus (AE/AF Lock)
  • Tap and hold before recording
  • Great for consistent lighting (especially for split screens or stop-motion)
  • Slide up or down to adjust brightness
• Camera Settings Refresher
  • 30 fps = best for sharp video
  • 24 fps = filmic look
  • 4K = high detail (but watch your storage!)
  • Know when to toggle off HDR (high dynamic range)
• Cinematic Mode
  • Great for film-style depth
  • Limited zoom, but beautiful focus blur for storytelling shots
• Use the 0.5 Wide Angle Lens
  • Capture more of your environment
  • Especially helpful when shooting yourself with back camera
• Tap to Focus on What Matters
  • Want your product in focus? Tap it on screen
  • Switch focus between objects mid-recording for dynamic storytelling

🎧 Studio Spotlight:

🎙️ July Theme: Podcasting 101

• Studio members are diving into a podcasting series!
• Lesson Part 1 is now live in the Studio.
• More parts coming soon, including:
  • How to podcast without fancy gear
  • How to scale up when you're ready
  • Behind-the-scenes tips Helen uses herself
• Weekly themes continue as usual—content creation tips, community calls, and more!

🌀 Weekly Challenge:
This week’s tutorial lesson focused on playing with speed changes—recording at different speeds and editing speed shifts post-recording.

🔗 Links & Mentions:

• Want to join The Socialize Studio and access podcasting tutorials + challenges?
  ➡️ https://socialize-studio.mn.co
• Missed the newsletter on mobile camera tips?
  ➡️ Check your inbox or studio dashboard!

❤️ Closing Thoughts:

Thanks for being here. If you learned a new tip—or just enjoyed the vibes—drop a comment or reply to the newsletter. The support means everything. ✨

On this week’s episode, Helen covers: Favorite Tools + TikTok Future + Building What’s Next

🔌 Unsponsored Favorites of the Week

1. Hollyland Wireless Mic: 

• Compact, clean audio, magnetized for easy placement
• Comes with adapters for iPhone/Android
• Great alternative to bulky, poor-quality wireless mics
• Bonus: Comes with discreet black stickers to cover the logo

2. Eastpak Travel Backpack:

• Perfect for laptop + travel essentials
• Dual function: backpack + shoulder strap
• Sleek, under-the-seat friendly
• Only con: missing suitcase handle slot

🎧 Coming Soon in the Studio:  

How to Launch a Podcast on a Budget

• Step-by-step lesson inside the Studio
• Includes: affordable gear, uploading, podcasting on YouTube correctly
• Perfect for creators wanting to test the waters

JOIN THE STUDIO NOW!

📣 On the TikTok Shift + What to Do Now

• New US-only TikTok (“M2”) feels isolating and problematic
• Claims about follower migration seem unrealistic
• Likely changes in community feel and algorithm
• Helen’s current stance: It’s a no (as of July 11)

💡 Diversification Strategy

• Now is the time to explore other platforms
  • YouTube: More stable, values real creators, no AI monetization starting July 15
  • Email Lists: Essential for staying connected
  • Newsletters / Free Communities: Building sustainable spaces
  • Podcasting, Blogging, Amazon Associates — lean into what fits you

🔁 Tip: Think about what you loved most about TikTok and recreate that feeling elsewhere.

💬 Final Thoughts

• Use this moment as a creative reset
• Build toward your strength — community, teaching, entertainment, etc.
• Studio community is evolving — real-time support + collaborative growth
• Join the 7-day free trial to explore lessons, tools, and creator support

JOIN TODAY!

How to Build Effective Social Media Habits

If staying consistent on social media feels overwhelming, you’re not alone. Between the pressure to post, the temptation to scroll, and the constant changes in trends, it can be hard to build a rhythm. But what if creating content became as automatic as checking your phone?
This week, we’re diving into simple strategies to turn content creation into a daily habit—starting with one surprisingly effective mindset shift.

Why This Habit Is Working

This strategy is gaining traction because it creates a gateway to using the app—you must post before you scroll. By treating posting as a requirement for opening the app, it sets a purposeful tone.
We tried it for a day, and not only did we post more, but we also found ourselves reaching for the app less out of boredom. (Unintended bonus: reduced doom-scrolling!)

But the real power of this method is that it helps you build a content creation habit—and habits are the backbone of consistency and growth on social media.

Tips to Build a Daily Creation Habit

1. Start with a realistic goal
If you never post and suddenly aim for three videos a day, it likely won’t stick. Set an achievable starting point—like three posts a week. Once that feels easy, increase to five, then more, until you reach a rhythm that works for you.

2. Act when inspiration strikes
Do you ever think of a great video idea but push it off for later? Try recording it right when the idea hits. Even if you don’t post that first take, you’ll capture the most authentic version of your thought when your energy is highest.

3. Done is better than perfect
Social media isn’t film or TV. While quality matters, obsessing over tiny details can slow you down. Focus on sharing value. Most viewers are scrolling quickly—they care more about your message than your lighting.

4. Use the newsletter to your advantage
Every Tuesday, we send the Socialize Forecast—packed with trends, content ideas, tutorials, and trending audio. Use it to plan your weekly content. Adapt the ideas to fit your style, or treat it as your go-to resource for what’s working now.
SUBSCRIBE HERE: https://www.hellosocialize.com/

We’re here to help make daily content creation easier, not harder.