Social Goals: Social media strategy that works for small town business

If marketing feels like a chore, your audience can tell—and your results will suffer. In this energizing solo episode, Kat breaks down the mindset shift that every small business owner needs: fun is not just a bonus, it’s the key to effective marketing. Kat shares how embracing joy in your content creation can radically transform engagement, consistency, and connection with your community.From her journey working with makers, main streeters, and hometown service providers to the mission behind the Social with Kat Club, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical encouragement to help you rediscover the joy in your marketing routine, especially during the hectic holiday season.Whether you’re prepping for Black Friday, planning for 2026, or just trying to show up more confidently online, this episode is a reminder that fun drives results.Tune in to learn:👀 Why dreading your marketing leads to lackluster results🫶 The difference between “fun and effective” and “fun is effective”🩷 Who the Social with Kat Club is really for (hint: it’s more than just small-town businesses)😃 How to bring joy back into your content creation process🎄 Real-life holiday content ideas to spark creativity✨ The role of community and wraparound support in staying consistent🎁 Sneak peek at Black Friday offers for the Social with Kat ClubDon't forget to like, subscribe, and leave 5 stars! ☆ Join the Social with Kat Club: Fun & effective content prompts, coaching, and community for small business owners https://socialkatmedia.com/social-with-kat-club?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goalsBLACK FRIDAY SPECIALS valid Nov 26-28: https://socialkatmedia.com/club-black-friday?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals ☺ Connect with Kat:* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialkatmedia/* Threads: https://www.threads.net/@socialkatmedia* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kat-tepylo-murphy/ ☺ Free Resources to Help Your Small Business:https://socialkatmedia.com/resources?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals

Black Friday is one of the noisiest times on social media—but that doesn’t mean you have to run a sale to be heard. In this episode, Kat breaks down powerful strategies for both participating in and opting out of Black Friday promos without sacrificing connection, sales, or your sanity. Whether you're launching your biggest sale of the year or skipping it entirely, you’ll learn how to show up intentionally, tell your story, and engage your community without burnout. Plus, Kat shares personal insights on planning around your energy levels, repurposing high-performing content, and making sure your marketing is human-first and strategy-led.🎄 Covered in this episode Why not having a Black Friday sale can be a marketing opportunityHow to share your “why” with your community (sale or no sale) to build trustStrategies for staying visible during this high-traffic seasonSelf-care tips for avoiding burnout during holiday promotionsThe power of repurposing past content—including Kat’s viral exampleHow your cycle or energy rhythms can inform your marketing calendarCreating content that connects emotionally during peak sales periodsDon't forget to like, subscribe, and leave 5 stars! ☆ Join the Social with Kat Club: Fun & effective content prompts, coaching, and community for small business owners https://socialkatmedia.com/social-with-kat-club?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals ☺ Connect with Kat:* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialkatmedia/* Threads: https://www.threads.net/@socialkatmedia* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kat-tepylo-murphy/ ☺ Free Resources to Help Your Small Business:https://socialkatmedia.com/resources?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals

After a brief podcast pause (because life happens!), Kat returns with the most adorable guests yet— her kids! This candid, cozy, and laughter-filled episode is a nod to all the multitasking, magic-making parents running businesses and raising families at the same time. Get ready for giggles, kid logic, and the kind of joy that reminds you why you started your business in the first place. From sweet insights on what “Mama does for work” to podcast recommendations for kids, screen-time boundaries, and the magic of Lego and baking— this is the most adorable strategy break you didn’t know you needed.This episode features: 💼 A kid’s take on what “Mama” does for work🧠 Chatting about screen time and healthy boundaries🎧 Our family’s favourite kids’ podcasts 🎨 The role of baking, Lego, and crafts in balancing business + family life🤹‍♀️ Real talk on being a parent and entrepreneur during the holidaysDon't forget to like, subscribe, and leave 5 stars! ☆ Join the Social with Kat Club: Fun & effective content prompts, coaching, and community for small business owners https://socialkatmedia.com/social-with-kat-club?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals ☺ Connect with Kat:* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialkatmedia/* Threads: https://www.threads.net/@socialkatmedia* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kat-tepylo-murphy/ ☺ Free Resources to Help Your Small Business:https://socialkatmedia.com/resources?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals

Lisa Couture, founder of Couture Candy, joins Kat for a heartfelt conversation about running a small business rooted in kindness and community. From launching during the pandemic to navigating multiple storefronts and getting serious about social, Lisa offers an honest look at the emotional and practical realities of entrepreneurship. Learn how Lisa built a loyal following, grew her Instagram by 5,000+ followers in just a few months, and continues to make a real impact with every piece of candy sold.What we chat about in this episode:🎂 Celebrating 5 years in downtown Peterborough🍬 The origin story of Couture Candy and its deeper mission😢 The emotional rollercoaster of running a business🧠 Lisa’s content strategy shift for Instagram growth🛍️ Why storytelling is key for small businesses📦 The power of candygrams in connecting people💬 Setting boundaries and giving back with intention📲 How Lisa uses trends, AI, and scheduling to show up authentically onlineDon't forget to like, subscribe, and leave 5 stars!Connect with Lisa:Follow Lisa on Instagram: @couturecandy.ptboTune into Lisa’s live sales: Thursdays at 8:30PM EST on Instagram and TikTokShare this episode with your fellow small biz ownersSupport small businesses by shopping local and spreading kindness 💕 ☆ Join the Social with Kat Club: Fun & effective content prompts, coaching, and community for small business owners https://socialkatmedia.com/social-with-kat-club?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals ☺ Connect with Kat:* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialkatmedia/* Threads: https://www.threads.net/@socialkatmedia* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kat-tepylo-murphy/ ☺ Free Resources to Help Your Small Business:https://socialkatmedia.com/resources?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals

Branding is so much more than picking pretty colours—it’s about alignment, storytelling, and owning your space as a leader. In this episode, Kat sits down with Stacy Aguilar, brand and web designer, strategist, and creator of The Good Design Method, to talk about building a visual identity that actually works.Stacy shares how to avoid visual boredom while staying consistent, why design is an act of leadership, and how to confidently show up—even before you feel "ready." Whether you're DIY-ing your brand or prepping to outsource, this conversation is packed with encouragement, actionable design strategies, and mindset shifts to help you take up space as the expert you already are.🩷 We chat about:Visual consistency ≠ boring: Stacy breaks down how to keep your brand visually consistent and creatively dynamic.Design is leadership: A strong brand empowers you to show up confidently and helps others believe in your expertise.Start where you are: Your visuals don’t have to be perfect to be powerful. Start with what you have and build as you grow.DIY doesn’t mean “do it alone”: Leverage tools, templates, and guidance (like The Good Design Method) to make confident design decisions.Content batching tips: How to create reusable graphic templates and reduce design overwhelm with smart systems.Brand archetypes matter: Why understanding your brand personality influences every visual decision you make.📣 Connect with Stacy:Instagram: @stacyeaguilarWebsite + Program Info: https://www.stacyeaguilar.com/the-good-design-method-waitlistDon't forget to like, subscribe, and leave 5 stars!☆ Join the Social with Kat Club: Fun & effective content prompts, coaching, and community for small business owners https://socialkatmedia.com/social-with-kat-club?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals☺ Connect with Kat:* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialkatmedia/* Threads: https://www.threads.net/@socialkatmedia* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kat-tepylo-murphy/☺ Free Resources to Help Your Small Business:https://socialkatmedia.com/resources?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals

In this episode of Social Goals, I sit down with Canadian maker Bonnie Smith — the creative force behind Concrete Barn Co. and CBCo.Designs. From managing three Instagram accounts to batching a week of content in just two hours, Bonnie offers real, relatable insight into what it’s like to wear all the hats. You’ll walk away with practical strategies for streamlining your content and showing up authentically — even if you're an introvert.Meet Bonnie:Bonnie Smith is a laser file designer, physical product creator, and consultant based in Canada. She runs Concrete Barn Co., a shop selling laser-cut keepsakes and home decor, and Cbco.Designs, a digital storefront offering cut-ready files for makers. A mom, a maker, and now a full-time entrepreneur, Bonnie is passionate about helping other creatives balance time, creativity, and sales — without the burnout.Episode Highlights:🛠️ Managing Multiple Accounts: How she creates content for 3 Instagram accounts every week — in under 2 hours.🧰 Systems that Work: The simple photo and B-roll organization strategy that keeps content creation stress-free.🎬 Showing Up Authentically: From refusing to show her face to confidently sharing stories (no dancing required!).🔁 Repurposing Like a Pro: Why she never starts from scratch with seasonal content — and you shouldn’t either.📈 Intentional Growth: How one viral lip-sync reel took off and why mixing content types matters.🤝 The Power of Connection: How the Social with Kat Club gave her structure, fresh ideas, and community.Connect with Bonnie:Laser-cut products: @concretebarnco Digital files for makers: @cbco.designsDon't forget to like, subscribe, and leave 5 stars! ☆ Join the Social with Kat Club: Fun & effective content prompts, coaching, and community for small business owners https://socialkatmedia.com/social-with-kat-club?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals ☺ Connect with Kat:* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialkatmedia/* Threads: https://www.threads.net/@socialkatmedia* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kat-tepylo-murphy/ ☺ Free Resources to Help Your Small Business:https://socialkatmedia.com/resources?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals

In this epi of Social Goals, I chat with farmer, florist, and creative entrepreneur Kelsey Jibb, the powerhouse behind Cold Springs Flower Farm in Cobourg, Ontario. As a busy mom of three, Kelsey shares how she juggles farming, motherhood, and marketing — all while building a flower business that’s anything but boring.Kelsey opens up about her journey into content creation, how social media became a vital part of her growth strategy, and why showing up authentically (Merlin bird app and all!) makes all the difference. Plus, she shares her honest take on being part of the Social with Kat Club and how it transformed her marketing workflow.Meet the guest:Kelsey Jibb is the founder of Cold Springs Flower Farm, a micro flower farm in rural Ontario known for its bright, bold, and personality-filled blooms. Through subscriptions, a farm stand, and seasonal experiences, Kelsey’s mission is to make flowers feel fun and help women reconnect with nature—one bouquet at a time.What we chat about:🌻 Weathering the Storms: Kelsey shares how this year’s brutal growing season (42 days without rain!) has impacted the farm — and how she’s staying resilient.📲 The Power of Personality: Why showing up authentically on social (even as a bird-nerd) creates deeper audience connections.🧠 Behind-the-Scenes is the Strategy: How showing the not-so-glamorous parts of farm life actually boosts engagement.📅 Marketing Workflow Tips: Kelsey walks through her weekly content routine — including how she batch-creates content and schedules it without burnout.🎯 Finding the Right Audience: The mindset shift that helped her finally start speaking to her real target market.💬 The Club Effect: How the Social with Kat Club helped Kelsey reclaim her time, creativity, and confidence as a content creator.Connect with KelseyGet her Free Checklist for Fresh Cut Flower Care to help your blooms last longer: https://coldspringsflowerfarm.myflodesk.com/ Follow Kelsey on Instagram: @coldspringsflowerfarm – for behind-the-scenes farm life, content creation inspo, and seasonal updates (pumpkins included 🎃).Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave 5 stars! ☆ Join the Social with Kat Club: Fun & effective content prompts, coaching, and community for small business owners https://socialkatmedia.com/social-with-kat-club?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals ☺ Connect with Kat:* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialkatmedia/* Threads: https://www.threads.net/@socialkatmedia* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kat-tepylo-murphy/

When you’re a small business owner who prides yourself on supporting local, what happens when someone calls you out— for buying Starbucks? In this heartfelt episode, I open up about a personal experience that left me spiralling and the lessons I learned about imperfection, judgment, and the pressure to perform perfectly as a values-driven entrepreneur.I also share how this moment became a catalyst for change, leading me to show up more transparently in my business and communicate the causes I support behind the scenes. This is a conversation about nuance, empathy, and giving ourselves grace while still doing our best to make a difference.If you’ve ever felt like you’re not doing enough or questioned whether your values align with your actions, this one’s for you.🔗 Resources Mentioned:🌍 Oxfam Canada – Fighting poverty and inequality through women’s rights☕ Prompts to Posted Workshop – Batch a week of content + support a good cause ($5 from each ticket goes to Oxfam)☺ Connect with Kat:* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialkatmedia/* Threads: https://www.threads.net/@socialkatmedia* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kat-tepylo-murphy/ ☺ Free Resources to Help Your Small Business:https://socialkatmedia.com/resources?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals

If you’ve ever found yourself doom-scrolling at night instead of doing something you actually enjoy (hi, guilty), this episode is for you.I’m sharing the biggest game-changer I’ve made when it comes to phone boundaries — getting a business-only phone — and all the little tweaks I’ve tested to help me feel better and create better. This one's about giving yourself some breathing room from the apps that are literally designed to keep us scrolling.If you’re a small biz owner who’s also a content creator (aka all of us), you’ll walk away from this episode with realistic, non-judgy tools to protect your peace and your productivity.In this episode, I talk about:* The real reason I needed better phone boundaries (hint: it’s not just business)* Why having a separate business phone has changed everything* The apps, habits, and tools that helped me scroll less (https://one-sec.app/ and https://www.forestapp.cc/) * How I’m modelling better screen use for my kids (imperfectly, of course)* My thoughts on things like the Phone Box, the Brick, and even a “kitchen phone”* What’s working for me right now — and where I’m still figuring it outIf you’re ready to make your social media habits work for you (not against you), this is your episode.Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave 5 stars! ☆ Build your custom social media game plan with Social Goals: The Course https://socialkatmedia.com/social-goals?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals ☺ Connect with Kat:* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialkatmedia/* Threads: https://www.threads.net/@socialkatmedia* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kat-tepylo-murphy/ ☺ Free Resources to Help Your Small Business:https://socialkatmedia.com/resources?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals

There’s no rule book for running a business and raising kids — and the picture-perfect version we see on social media often does more harm than good. In this episode, Puja and I go deep into the reality of ambition, motherhood, and identity as women entrepreneurs.From introvert-friendly ways to show up online, to the importance of separating your personal brand from your business brand, to letting go of the “balance” myth, Puja shares how she’s built a sustainable business while staying true to herself. Whether you’re a fellow creative, a small business owner, or a mom navigating similar challenges, you’ll walk away with both validation and actionable strategies.We chat about:💡 The difference between “balance” and “harmony” in work and life✨ Why Puja separated her personal brand from ROOP Creative — and how it changed her content🎯 Introvert strategies for networking, events, and social media🚫 The myth of the “perfect” working mom image online🤝 How community and mentorship can change your business trajectoryConnect with Puja:Instagram: @thepujamalhotraROOP Creative Agency: @roopcreativeagencyLearn about her Corporate Dropout mentorship: roopcreativeagency.com/mentorshipDon't forget to like, subscribe, and leave 5 stars! ☆ Build your custom social media game plan with Social Goals: The Course https://socialkatmedia.com/social-goals?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals ☺ Connect with Kat:* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialkatmedia/* Threads: https://www.threads.net/@socialkatmedia* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kat-tepylo-murphy/ ☺ Free Resources to Help Your Small Business:https://socialkatmedia.com/resources?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals

Instagram has rolled out three new updates this week — and they’ve got small business owners talking. In this episode of Social Goals, I break down:The controversial new Map feature and why you should think twice before turning it on.How to use Reposts strategically to boost engagement without hurting your analytics.What the new Friends tab in Reels means for your content visibility.You’ll walk away with practical safety tips, fresh marketing ideas, and a clear plan for leveraging these changes in a way that actually helps your local business grow.What I cover in this episode: 🚫 Map feature risks: what it does, how it works, and why keeping it off is safest.📲 Repost button: smart ways to use it for UGC, events, and collaborations.👯‍♀️ Collab vs. Repost: when each makes the most impact on your reach.🎯 Friends tab in Reels: how it reflects Instagram’s push toward private sharing and conversations.💡 Why a chronological feed wouldn’t solve your reach problems.Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave 5 stars! ☆ Build your custom social media game plan with Social Goals: The Course https://socialkatmedia.com/social-goals?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals ☺ Connect with Kat:* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialkatmedia/* Threads: https://www.threads.net/@socialkatmedia* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kat-tepylo-murphy/ ☺ Free Resources to Help Your Small Business:https://socialkatmedia.com/resources?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals

What’s the difference between “just copy” and compelling messaging that actually connects? In this episode of Social Goals, Kat sits down with Kira from Handle and Hone to unpack the essential (and often skipped) foundation behind great marketing: messaging strategy.Together, they dive into why your words may not be landing—even if you're using the “right” templates—and how to create a message that not only reflects who you are, but truly resonates with your audience. From copy myths to voice-of-customer gold, this is a must-listen for business owners ready to ditch surface-level tactics and get real with their brand voice.What You’ll Learn:Why messaging is the “deep work” behind all great marketingThe iceberg analogy: what messaging is vs. what copy isHow to balance your voice with your audience’s desiresWhere to start when your content doesn’t sound like youTactical ways to collect and use Voice of Customer (VOC) dataWhy demographics don’t matter as much as motivationsHow to know if it’s time for a rebrand—or just better messagingConnect with Kira:👉 Download Kira’s Freebie: Their Words, Your Copy🔗 Kira’s Website: Handle and Hone📱 Follow Kira on Instagram: @handleandhone☺ Connect with Kat:* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialkatmedia/* Threads: https://www.threads.net/@socialkatmedia* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kat-tepylo-murphy/Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave 5 stars! ☆ Build your custom social media game plan with Social Goals: The Course https://socialkatmedia.com/social-goals?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals☺ Free Resources to Help Your Small Business:https://socialkatmedia.com/resources?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals

In this solo episode, Kat unpacks why your story matters more than you think—and how sharing it authentically on social media can transform your business. Learn why your “why” is often the missing piece in your marketing strategy and how to uncover and share it confidently, even if it doesn’t feel “big enough.” Kat also walks you through a practical brainstorming exercise to start identifying the powerful moments that shaped your business journey.Whether you’re a service provider, a creative, or a small-town business owner, Kat shows you how connecting through your personal story builds trust, loyalty, and a community that’s invested in you—even before they’re ready to buy.'📌 Resources & Mentions:Simon Sinek's TED Talk – Start With WhyBook: Start With Why by Simon SinekDon't forget to like, subscribe, and leave 5 stars! ☆ Build your custom social media game plan with Social Goals: The Course https://socialkatmedia.com/social-goals?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals ☺ Connect with Kat:* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialkatmedia/* Threads: https://www.threads.net/@socialkatmedia* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kat-tepylo-murphy/ ☺ Free Resources to Help Your Small Business:https://socialkatmedia.com/resources?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals

In this breaking-news episode, Kat Tepylo Murphy is joined by Canadian lawyer Jaime Bell to unpack the controversial updates to CapCut’s Terms of Service—and why they matter to small business owners, social media managers, and creators.Jaime explains how CapCut now claims sweeping rights to any content you upload—including drafts—and why this could impact your copyright, your clients, and even your legal liability. If you're creating content for clients or using trending music in your videos, this conversation is a must-listen.From risk tolerance to legal compliance and smarter app alternatives, Kat and Jaime deliver the essential insights every content creator needs right now.✨ Key Highlights:What CapCut’s updated terms really say and why they’re alarmingCopyright, royalties, and third-party licensing risksWhat you can (and can’t) do if CapCut uses your contentThe legal risk of using trending music in business contentRisk tolerance and protecting client contentLegal must-haves for small biz marketing: privacy policies, testimonials, contractsFTC rules you didn’t know you were breaking📌 Resources & Mentions:Contracts Market by Jaime Bell (Affiliate Link)Jaime’s Instagram: @contractsmarketDon't forget to like, subscribe, and leave 5 stars! ☆ Build your custom social media game plan with Social Goals: The Course https://socialkatmedia.com/social-goals?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals ☺ Connect with Kat:* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialkatmedia/* Threads: https://www.threads.net/@socialkatmedia* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kat-tepylo-murphy/ ☺ Free Resources to Help Your Small Business:https://socialkatmedia.com/resources?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals

Sometimes the best-performing content is the least polished. Kat and Mariah dive into why embracing playful, real-life moments in your content can be a game changer for your business. They discuss the power of creating alongside friends, how to build your brand voice through low-pressure Reels, and why showing up imperfectly often leads to deeper audience connection. They also share strategies for starting conversations and pitching in the DMs without feeling slimy — plus a free guide to help you do it better.☺ Connect with Mariah:Free Guide: Pitch BetterFollow Mariah on IG: @mariahmakesithappen☺ Connect with Kat:* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialkatmedia/* Threads: https://www.threads.net/@socialkatmedia* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kat-tepylo-murphy/☺ Free Resources to Help Your Small Business:https://socialkatmedia.com/resources?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goalsDon't forget to like, subscribe, and leave 5 stars! ☆ Build your custom social media game plan with Social Goals: The Course https://socialkatmedia.com/social-goals?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals

Social media growth doesn’t have to mean burnout. In this solo episode, Kat breaks down a realistic and human-centered approach to reaching your next 1,000 followers. Learn why attracting the right followers matters more than going viral, how to create consistent content with ease, and the importance of balancing online visibility with offline connection and rest. Whether you’re just getting started or ready to grow again, this is your go-to plan.Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave 5 stars! ☆ Get 40+ easy-to-customize B-Roll Hooks for $7: https://socialkatmedia.thrivecart.com/hooked-the-reel-vault/?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals ☺ Connect with Kat:* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialkatmedia/* Threads: https://www.threads.net/@socialkatmedia* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kat-tepylo-murphy/ ☺ Free Resources to Help Your Small Business:https://socialkatmedia.com/resources?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals

In this episode of Social Goals, Kat sits down with Heather Litster — holistic health practitioner and founder of Moon & Bloom — to talk about creating content that flows with your energy, not against it. Heather shares how one reel went viral (over 3.5 million views!) and the unexpected emotional weight that followed. Together, they unpack how to prepare for virality, why capturing simple B-roll is a must, and how syncing your content creation with your menstrual cycle can make social media feel a whole lot easier. If you’ve ever felt content fatigue or worried you can’t keep up, this episode offers both relief and strategy.'Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave 5 stars!☆ Build your custom social media game plan with Social Goals: The Course https://socialkatmedia.com/social-goals?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals☺ Connect with Heather:Moon & Bloom on InstagramCycles of Change ProjectHeather’s Website☺ Connect with Kat:* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialkatmedia/* Threads: https://www.threads.net/@socialkatmedia* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kat-tepylo-murphy/ ☺ Free Resources to Help Your Small Business:https://socialkatmedia.com/resources?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goalsB-Roll Checklist: https://socialkatmedia.com/resources-broll?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals

Small businesses don’t need clickbait or manipulation to thrive. In this episode of Social Goals, Kat is joined by copywriting expert Maddy Aucoin to share how small business owners can use authentic, honest marketing to build real community — without relying on sleazy sales tactics or viral trends. They discuss the dangers of fear-based messaging, why trust and transparency matter more than ever, and how infusing your everyday life into your content can strengthen your brand (plus simple ways to show up online that feel good for you and your audience.)What You'll Learn:What honest marketing looks like for small businessesHow fear-based tactics hurt your reputation and bottom lineWhy authenticity wins over "expert hacks"How to use your real life (like coffee shop visits or hobbies) to connect with customersEasy ways to show up more consistently and joyfully onlineDon't forget to like, subscribe, and leave 5 stars! ☆ Build your custom social media game plan with Social Goals: The Course https://socialkatmedia.com/social-goals?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals☺ Connect with Maddy: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bymaddyaucoin/* Website: bymaddyaucoin.com ☺ Connect with Kat:* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialkatmedia/* Threads: https://www.threads.net/@socialkatmedia* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kat-tepylo-murphy/ ☺ Free Resources to Help Your Small Business:https://socialkatmedia.com/resources?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals

Marketing data doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In this episode, Kat and Ally bust the myth that analytics are only for big brands and dive into how beginners can harness simple data to make better decisions. From Instagram metrics to checkout optimization, they explore the real reasons small businesses should start using data now—not later.Kat and Ally break down:Why data matters more for new or small businesses than big onesThe 5 essential metrics every product-based business should trackReal-world examples of small tweaks that tripled conversionsHow Kat uncovered a hidden issue in her launch with Ally’s helpWhy UTM codes are game-changers for data trackingThe 4 pillars of marketing strategy: Reach, Nurture, Convert, Retain🔗 Resources & Mentions:Ally's FREE Google Analytics Self Audit: https://akaridigital.thrivecart.com/google-analytics-self-audit/?coupon=SOCIALKATFollow Ally on Instagram: @akaridigitalStart here with Ally’s beginner resources: akaridigital.ca/startDon't forget to like, subscribe, and leave 5 stars!☆ Build your custom social media game plan with Social Goals: The Course☺ Connect with Kat:* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialkatmedia/* Threads: https://www.threads.net/@socialkatmedia* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kat-tepylo-murphy/ ☺ Free Resources to Help Your Small Business:https://socialkatmedia.com/resources?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals

In today’s episode, Kat shares how small-town and local-based entrepreneurs can leverage social media to connect authentically with their nearby audience. From strategic engagement to location tagging and hashtag tips, she walks through exactly how to become a visible and valued part of your local online (and offline!) community.What You’ll Learn:Why local engagement is a smart growth strategy—even for online businessesThe power of starting your audience-building efforts in personHow to use Instagram’s features (like location tags, favorites feed, and hashtags) to be discovered by people in your areaDaily and weekly habits to build genuine local engagement on social mediaMentioned Resources: Get Found & Followed: Instagram Profile Must-Haves for 2025 https://rss.com/podcasts/social-goals/1873482/Instagram Hashtags in 2025: What Works & What Doesn’t https://rss.com/podcasts/social-goals/1873482/Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave 5 stars!☆ Build your custom social media game plan with Social Goals: The Course https://socialkatmedia.com/social-goals?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals☺ Connect with Kat:* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialkatmedia/* Threads: https://www.threads.net/@socialkatmedia* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kat-tepylo-murphy/☺ Free Resources to Help Your Small Business:https://socialkatmedia.com/resources?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=social-goals