Good Content with Shannon McKinstrie

Latest Episodes:

You Want Your Content to Fit Your Life, Not Become Your Life Dec 30, 2025

Show notes

As business owners who are creating social media content, the stakes feel so high and the pressure is so heavy, but I want you to remember that your content needs to support your life and your lifestyle, not replace it. The best content doesn’t come from overthinking it or forcing ideas, it comes from living our real everyday lives and sharing those authentic moments, opinions, and experiences online. I’ll walk you through why the magic of social media lies in showcasing your personality and lived experience, and I’m sharing some fun content examples to help you get some quick wins so you can approach content creation with renewed energy as we head into 2026.

In this episode we’ll be covering:

How to make content creation less overwhelming by living your life, record what you're already doing and turn that into content.
Sharing what your audience is too afraid to say or something that they haven't really thought of in that way.
Using your lived experience to create relatable posts that connect with your followers.
Why brands and products need a unique personality to succeed on social media in 2026.
Content examples that drive engagement and growth using the 4H’s: helpful, humorous, heard, and happenings..
Tips for integrating content creation into your routine without it taking over your life.

Featured content in this episode:

Wonderfilled_life_: This coffee smells like everything is getting thrown away today
Dr.zachtrevino: Merry Christmas to everyone except…
Hanashappyhome: Small starter home
Charlotteetiquette: One polite habit…
Lydkerr: Turns out veggies are delicious
Boringfriends: Support smaller businesses

Recommended episodes:

Episode 006: Selling a Lifestyle, Not Just a Product
Episode 044: Become Their Favorite Comfort Creator with Everyday Moments
Episode 063: Was That an Ad? Even the Big Brands are Making it Personal
Episode 070: Instagram Growth Hacks That Actually Work and Give Your Account Personality
Episode 092: This is the Era of Experiences and Belonging

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The Instagram Algorithm is Not the Villain: Being More Intentional with Your Content Dec 23, 2025

Show notes

If you’ve been feeling confused, overwhelmed, or just simply stressed out by Instagram this past year, it’s time to change your approach for 2026. It’s not 2020 anymore and content strategies have changed. Going into the new year, we’re focusing on crafting a more intentional content strategy that’s all about authentic connection, powerful storytelling, and understanding exactly what your audience craves. We’ll discuss a major Instagram update from this past week (hashtags aren’t dead), how to best apply the change to your own content, and why it might feel like the algorithm is the enemy (it’s really not!). Let’s make 2026 our best year yet!

In this episode we’ll be covering:

The latest update from Instagram: New hashtag update limits usage to three to five relevant hashtags per post.
Prioritizing intentional content, with keyword-rich captions and on-screen text.
Keeping audiences engaged and increasing retention rates through storytelling and humanizing your content.
Using me-centric storytelling hooks and relatable language that builds emotional connection, driving shares and saves.
Doing audience research and speaking directly to followers' needs, interests, and lifestyles for optimal reach.
The algorithm myths: Instagram rewards valuable content that genuinely resonates with people.

Featured content in this episode:

Hashtag Update

Recommended episodes:

Episode 088: Find Your Content Rhythm and Build a Simple Content Strategy
Episode 089: How You’re Going to Become Really Good at Content Creation in 2026 (Part 1)
Episode 090: How You’re Going to Become Really Good at Content Creation in 2026 (Part 2)
Episode 091: My Personal Predictions for Instagram in 2026
Episode 092: This is the Era of Experiences and Belonging

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This is the Era of Experiences and Belonging Dec 16, 2025

Show notes

We’re diving into what truly makes your content stand out, especially as we look ahead to 2026. I’ve seen so many trends come and go over the years, but the most impactful strategy remains the same: creating an experience and a sense of belonging. Whether you’re a brick-and-mortar shop owner, a realtor, fitness coach, business mentor, or product creator, what sets you apart is inviting your audience to feel something. In this episode, I’ll break down how to transform your content from “teachy and generic” to ME-centric and lived-experience focused. We’ll talk about crafting carousels and reels that put your followers in the story with actionable ways to make your messaging familiar, cozy, and inviting.

In this episode we’ll be covering:

Why lived experiences matter more than generic “value” posts that sound like Google or ChatGPT.
Shifting focus to Me-Centric hooks where you share real experiences, recommendations, and stories.
Creating a sense of belonging and community allowing your audience to see themselves in your content, while also helping them feel safe.
The growing desire for memorable, interactive experiences both online and in-person.
Leveraging familiarity with hyperlocal content that mentions specific cities, states and other locations.
Personalizing your content to speak to specific people making them feel seen and like they belong.

Featured content in this episode:

ShannonMcKinstrie: 5 Subtle Content Shifts Driving Massive Growth in 2026

Recommended episodes:

Episode 067: The Importance of Belonging on Social Media
Episode 081: Your Next Powerful Piece of Content is Already on Your Phone
Episode 085: Start Thinking Like a Marketer So People See Themselves in Your Content
Episode 088: Find Your Content Rhythm and Build a Simple Content Strategy

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Here’s What Good Content Will Look Like in 2026 Dec 09, 2025

Show notes

I absolutely cannot wait for 2026 and in this episode I’m sharing my predictions for social media trends that we’ll see next year and beyond. We’re talking about simple POV hooks that are personal and relatable, content inspiration that’s literally right outside your window, and the core reason for all social media. We’ll do a reel breakdown discussing key elements and why they work, revisiting the REP hook formula, and making sure your content is always specific to your audience.

In this episode we’ll be covering:

Finding content inspiration through relevant and current events to create content that is personal, relatable, and actually connects.
The core reason for all social media, because genuine content that connects and resonates keeps us coming back for more.
A content breakdown of what’s really working right now, we’ll review different key elements and why they work.
How to weave relatable words, proof of expertise, and personal touches into content that resonates with your audience.
The ultimate reel hack that keeps people coming back.

Featured content in this episode:

Becomingdrdevore: Whole Foods
Shannonmckinstrie: 7 Simple things to start doing
Holistichealingla: Trader Joe’s

Recommended episodes:

Episode 043: We’re Getting Back to Basics and Loving Our Content
Episode 063: Was That an Ad? Even the Big Brands are Making it Personal
Episode 083: Use the REP Hook Formula and Start Filling in the Missing Pieces
Episode 085: Start Thinking Like a Marketer So People See Themselves in Your Content
Episode 086: Give Your Social Media Content a Holiday Twist
Episode 089: How You’re Going to Become Really Good at Content Creation in 2026 (Part 1)
Episode 090: How You’re Going to Become Really Good at Content Creation in 2026 (Part 2)

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How You’re Going to Become Really Good at Content Creation in 2026 (Part 2) Dec 02, 2025

Show notes

Are you ready for part two of Becoming Really Good at Content Creation in 2026? In the last episode, we laid the groundwork for simplifying your social media process and how creating relatable scenarios is more important than ever. If you completed last week’s homework assignment, this episode is all about putting it into action. I’ll share the results of my own experiment (I focused on wedding photographers, but this applies to your industry too!) and show you how to apply those scenarios, making them uniquely yours. I’ll walk you through practical content prompts and how to use them, revisiting the posts we discussed in part one. Whether you’re feeling inspired after last week or still a little stuck, I’ve got you covered!

In this episode we’ll be covering:

Why human connection and storytelling are so important to your content going into 2026.
Using scenario and situation based content in your content strategy to resonate with your specific audience.
Back-to-basics of social media focusing on storytelling, personal journeys, and genuine conversations that serve your audience and build genuine connections.
Examples! Crafting content hooks and storytelling techniques for services and products that use emotional triggers and personal stories.
Thinking like a marketer and understanding the human psychology behind content with specific examples of effective prompts and scenarios.

Featured content in this episode:

The 4 H Method™️| Content Strategy Masterclass

Recommended episodes:

Episode 080: A Crash Course in Social Media Marketing
Episode 085: Start Thinking Like a Marketer So People See Themselves in Your Content
Episode 088: Find Your Content Rhythm and Build a Simple Content Strategy
Episode 089: How You’re Going to Become Really Good at Content Creation in 2026 (Part 1)

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How You’re Going to Become Really Good at Content Creation in 2026 (Part 1) Nov 25, 2025

Show notes

We’re locking in and over the next 5-6 weeks you’re going to get into such a good content rhythm it becomes a habit. I’m bringing you part one of a two-part series designed to help you to become disgustingly good at social media, even during this busy holiday season! In this episode, we’ll focus on creating relatable scenarios your audience can see themselves in, whether you’re building a personal brand for product partnerships or delivering services as a pro. I’m sharing tons of real examples and scenarios, and a must try ChatGPT prompt so you can start with loads of ideas to help make content creation a habit, not a chore.

In this episode we’ll be covering:

Simple and effective content creation strategies for busy entrepreneurs during the holiday season
How to paint relatable situations and scenarios that help your audience see themselves in your social media content.
Tips for full time content creators, lifestyle brands, product-based accounts and service providers to boost brand partnerships and sales.
Why focusing on storytelling, emotion, and lived experiences makes content stand out.
ChatGPT prompt to help get you started with lots of tailored content ideas.

Grab a seat at the Webinar!

Featured content in this episode:

Trending_with_trina: Things I brought on my recent trip
Askthedentist: Too tired to floss
Sweatandtell: You don’t feel like cooking
Crystal_paschall13: Niche local coffee shops
Hauskrist: Favorite things party gifts I would steal
Selfseekingschool: Anxiety is repressed anger
Nail._.priere: Powder white
Alexuscazares: 50 Healthy date ideas
ShannonMckinstrie: You want social media to start paying you like it’s a job

Recommended episodes:

Episode 043: We’re Getting Back to Basics and Loving Our Content
Episode 044: Become Their Favorite Comfort Creator with Everyday Moments
Episode 075: Here’s What I Would Post for You on Instagram This Week
Episode 081: Your Next Powerful Piece of Content is Already on Your Phone
Episode 086: Give Your Social Media Content a Holiday Twist
Episode 088: Find Your Content Rhythm and Build a Simple Content Strategy

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Find Your Content Rhythm and Build a Simple Content Strategy Nov 18, 2025

Show notes

Today, I’m bringing you some real talk about making content creation easy, especially with the holiday season in full swing. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the social media “rules,” you are not alone, that’s why I’m sharing my simple approach to building a content strategy that actually works. I’m breaking down my signature 4H Method framework (Heard, Helpful, Humor, and Happenings) so you can trade rigid content buckets for posts that always connect and resonate, so you can grow your business whether you’re posting once a week or three times a day. I’ll also discuss how to pick a posting rhythm that feels good for you, and be sure to stick around for some of my favorite hooks and ideas to get you started!

In this episode we’ll be covering:

Dtiching the content creation overwhelm during the busy holiday season.
Feeling stuck with content marketing buckets and rigid notions of when and how often to post.
Tips for picking a posting rhythm that fits your lifestyle and goals.
Creating content that evokes feeling, resonates and connects, leading to followers, authority, and conversions.
How using any of the 4H’s can be nurturing and engaging.
Examples of viral hooks and relatable content ideas to boost audience connection.

Featured content in this episode:

Recommended episodes:

Episode 049: Relatable Humor That Says “They Get Me!”
Episode 067: The Importance of Belonging on Social Media
Episode 075: Here’s What I Would Post for You on Instagram This Week
Episode 086: Give Your Social Media Content a Holiday Twist

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How to Get New Followers on Instagram: Trial Reels, Bios, and More! Nov 11, 2025

Show notes

Let’s talk about real strategies for getting new Instagram followers, especially as social media has evolved and people have become a lot more selective when it comes to hitting that follow button. I’m breaking down what actually makes someone want to follow you, including how to optimize your bio, pinned posts, and stories to create a magnetic profile, and why trial reels are still one of the best tools for attracting fresh eyes, even if they don’t go viral.

In this episode we’ll be covering:

How to think like a user, what makes you hit follow on an account?
The strategy I use for trial reels that consistently brings in new followers to my account.
Why is Instagram really giving those warning messages and should you be worried?
How to prevent a trial reel from sharing to your account.
Creating an irresistible Instagram profile with an optimized account bio, purposeful pinned posts, and daily engaging stories.

Don’t have access to Trial Reels yet? Try this hack and let us know if it works for you!

Step 1: Go to this URL on your phone (https://creators.instagram.com/blog/instagram-trial-reels?locale=en_GB)

Step 2: Click the ‘Create Reel’ button

Step 3: This will open IG to upload or create a video. Press next, make any edits, etc., then press next again to fill out the caption etc. You should see a toggle to select “Trial Reel” (This is a trial reel and will only be shown to non-followers at first.) Post when you’re ready!

Step 4: Repeat the process and upload as many as you want. After a while the feature will just be on your account.

Additional step: if you ever lose the feature after you had it, just repeat the step-by-step and you’ll get access to it again.

Recommended episodes:

Episode 019: Convert Viewers to Followers with the “That’s Me” Reel
Episode 020: SEO Strategies to Optimize Your Instagram Content
Episode 040: Build More Connections with Everyday Moments
Episode 050: Stories Work! Here’s how to make them work for YOU
Episode 071: Start a New Instagram Account From Scratch (or Refresh Your Current One)
Episode 073: Staying Top of Mind with Instagram Stories

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Give Your Social Media Content a Holiday Twist Nov 04, 2025

Show notes

Ready or not, the holiday season is here! Let’s dive into holiday content ideas that will spark your creativity, no matter what your niche may be. From trending buzzwords to repurposing your best-performing posts with a seasonal twist, I’ll walk you through tons of actionable hooks, scenarios, and brand-specific concepts to help your content stand out this time of year. Whether you’re in real estate, food, home interiors, writing, or even a lawyer or pediatrician, I’ve got strategies that you can use too. This season can feel chaotic and stressful, but I want it to be fun!

In this episode we’ll be covering:

How to train your Instagram algorithm for holiday sales and trending topics discovery.
Three strategies for viral holiday reels: scenarios, buzzwords, and relatable identifiers.
Ideas and examples for home decor, food, real estate, and authors to maximize holiday engagement.
Tips for updating previous posts with a seasonal twist for winter, Christmas, Hanukkah and beyond..
Local marketing suggestions: spotlighting holiday events, markets, and must-visit spots in your city.

Featured content in this episode:

Interiorjems: Ralph Lauren Christmas decor you haven’t seen
Beyond_gray: Decorate your stair railing like a pro
Beyond_gray: How do you hang your window wreaths?
Lifebyleanna: Above sink garland hack
Life_of_glow: How do you get your dried citrus so perfect?
Miriamobrien_: Ralph Lauren inspired Christmas
Drinkswithdanica: Your new favorite holiday cocktail
Simplyeverydayliving: Christmas Shirley Temple
Leahsguides: Books that make you feel like you're in a Hallmark movie
Xchristmas365x: Christmas breakfast ideas
Jingle.all.year: Ultimate Christmas movie calendar
Emilywelchstyle: Soon life will feel like an early 2000’s rom-com
Lindsforthegirls: Perfect Christmas fleece
Cozycornerkai: How we’re surviving darker days
Lex_nicoleta: Gifts for the coolest girl you know
Leannebarlow: Picky girl christmas
Katiegeorges: Gifts people actually want under $25
Krystaldunn_: Girls craft night

Recommended episodes:

Episode 057: Repurpose Your Content for More Impact with Less Effort
Episode 067: The Importance of Belonging on Social Media
Episode 083: Use the REP Hook Formula and Start Filling in the Missing Pieces

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Start Thinking Like a Marketer So People See Themselves in Your Content Oct 28, 2025

Show notes

This episode is all about helping you think like a marketer, not just in theory, but in a way that’s practical and approachable. I’m breaking down how to connect deeply with your audience by moving beyond those generic identifiers and tapping into real-life scenarios, emotions, and storytelling that makes your content truly resonate. We’ll discuss the psychology behind great content, learn how to speak directly to your audience’s lived experiences, and you’ll leave with a quick win you can put into action this week. Whether you’re selling a product, a service, or simply trying to grow your presence on social media, the goal is to build genuine connection, community, and belonging through every piece of content you share.

In this episode we’ll be covering:

How to think like a marketer by knowing and understanding your audience almost as well as you know yourself.
Practical tips for creating relatable content that focuses on real-life moments and scenarios that can be used in any industry.
The why behind specific identifiers vs generic labels like “busy mom” or “small business owner”
The key reasons people choose to follow and buy: connection, community, and belonging, and making sure they are in any content you create.

Featured content in this episode:

Masseya: Home cooked meal for your kids

Recommended episodes:

Episode 042: Your Simple B-Roll Can Become Easy Reels That Actually Convert
Episode 067: The Importance of Belonging on Social Media
Episode 076: Create Content That Makes Them Want to Keeping Coming Back
Episode 080: A Crash Course in Social Media Marketing

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