In this episode of Dose of Social, we dive deep with Madeline Walden, Digital Content & Community Manager at the Aquarium of the Pacific (Long Beach, CA). Madeline shares how a lifelong love of social media and local oceanic inspiration led her to build a powerhouse content strategy that drives engagement, education—and yes—millions of TikTok followers.From her early days curating friends’ accounts to landing the aquarium’s first dedicated social role in 2016, Madeline has led the evolution of their digital presence. She walks us through how they transformed from sporadic posts to a full‑scale strategy, the virality of sea lions (yes, really) and how to balance family‑friendly fun with mission‑driven education.Here’s what we’re diving into:The rise of TikTok for the aquarium—how they launched in 2020, partnered with TikTok’s “Learn on TikTok” initiative and grew to 2.8 M followersDefining target audiences across platforms—families, animal enthusiasts, scientists—and tailoring content accordinglyThe secret sauce behind viral content: charismatic animals (hello, sea lions!), connection, emotion, and momentumBuilding a content team: in‑house social, video production, “Pacific Pals” (puppeteers!), animal‑care collaborationHow the aquarium sets KPIs—beyond pure analytics—to focus on community, awareness and real‑world impactAdvice for mission‑driven organisations and small teams: use the platforms like a user first, speak in accessible language, infuse education with a touch of humorConnect with Madeline Walden: Website (Aquarium of the Pacific): https://www.aquariumofpacific.org LinkedIn: Madeline Joy Walden Instagram: @aquariumofthepacific Podcast: Aquarium of the Podcific Connect with us: Follow Dose of Social on Instagram Subscribe on Spotify Listen on Apple Podcasts Visit our website 💬 Want to be a guest or ask us a question? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you!
In this episode of Dose of Social, we sit down with Mimi Banks, founder and CEO of MB Social, to unpack how her 15‑year career at L’Oréal paved the way for building a bold, full‐service social agency, and how that experience shapes the way we approach content, community and influencer strategy today.From launching Instagram and Pinterest for luxury beauty brands in 2012 to leading a team of global talent supporting major brands and creator partnerships, Mimi shares what works, and what doesn’t, when it comes to storytelling, engagement and authenticity in the digital age.Here’s what we’re diving into:Key strategies for building an engaged community: show up, listen, connect online and offline.How brands starting from scratch can create meaningful connections (not just followers): content, paid strategy and collaboration.Scaling community engagement without losing authenticity: shifts, systems and team structure.Defining your brand’s unique story for social: identifying your "why", content pillars, and how to translate brand into feed.Influencer marketing insights: letting creators shine, avoiding over‑briefing, leveraging repeat collaboration, measuring beyond likes and follows.Balancing aspirational vs relatable content, and why authenticity matters more than ever in an AI‑rich world.Connect with Mimi Banks:Website: https://mbsocial.comInstagram: @mbsocial.agencyInstagram: @mimibanksConnect with us:Follow Dose of Social on InstagramSubscribe on SpotifyListen on Apple PodcastsVisit our website 💬 Want to be a guest or share a question? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you!
In this episode of Dose of Social, we chat with Shannon Grayce, a business coach and former luxury brand marketer turned sales & marketing mentor. Shannon shares how she transitioned from corporate sales training into guiding entrepreneurs to scale their brands — all by combining authenticity, strategy, and aligned sales skills.She walks us through her signature frameworks and real-world client wins, and gives listeners a practical “homework” they can use right away to improve their marketing and lead nurturing.Here’s what we’re diving into:How Shannon pivoted from luxury brand marketing to full-time business coachingThe Know → Like → Trust method for turning cold leads into paying clientsThe difference between consulting and coaching — and why she prefers hands-on executionShannon’s Stoplight Theory for reading sales signals (green, yellow, red)The most underrated channels for small businesses right now: TikTok, LinkedIn & YouTubeConnect with Shannon Grayce: Website: https://globalpathcoaching.org Instagram: @shannongrayce Business Instagram: @globalpathcoaching Email: grayce.shannon@gmail.comConnect with us: Follow Dose of Social on Instagram Subscribe on Spotify Listen on Apple Podcasts Check out our website💬 Want to be a guest or ask us a question? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you!
In this episode of Dose of Social, we sit down with Dave Delaney, founder and CEO of Futureforth, to talk all things communication: from managing internal culture to growing your business through content. Dave is also the host of the ADHD Wise Squirrels podcast and author of New Business Networking, a guide to building better relationships both online and offline.With two decades of experience in leadership development, digital strategy, and content marketing, Dave shares his human-first approach to improving both internal and external communication, especially for small businesses trying to retain talent and stand out online.Here’s what we’re diving into:The first simple step to improve communication with customers and clientsHow to avoid the most common internal communication mistakesLeadership habits that increase retention and build trustWhy email marketing still matters and how to do it rightWhat to focus on when social media momentum plateausConnect with Dave Delaney:Website: https://futureforth.comPodcast: ADHD Wise SquirrelsBook: New Business NetworkingConnect with us:Follow Dose of Social on InstagramSubscribe on SpotifyListen on Apple PodcastsCheck out our website 💬 Want to be a guest or ask us a question? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you!
In this episode of Dose of Social, we sit down with Lizzie Curtis, celebrity stylist, mom of three, and the creative force behind Society Nautique, a handmade jewelry brand known for its timeless pieces and personal storytelling.Lizzie walks us through her early days of stringing beads as a middle schooler, working in boutiques, and how her love for design and business eventually evolved into two flourishing careers: styling for major campaigns and building her jewelry business from the ground up. Her journey is a masterclass in staying true to your creative instincts—while still being savvy about marketing, audience-building, and storytelling online.Whether she’s in “maker mode” or “manager mode,” Lizzie shares how she uses organic and paid social to connect authentically with her audience—and how content doesn’t need to be polished to convert.Here’s what we’re diving into:How Lizzie built Society Nautique from a childhood hobby into a full-fledged brandBalancing personal storytelling and product content across two Instagram accountsHer early exposure to retail and what working in a boutique taught her about brandingThe power of showing up authentically in paid ads (and why low-fi content performs best)Jewelry as an emotional connector—and the stories behind some of her most meaningful piecesConnect with Lizzie Curtis: Website: https://www.lizziecurtis.com Jewelry Brand: https://www.societynautique.com Instagram: @lizziecurtis Jewelry Instagram: @societynautique YouTube: @societynautiqueConnect with us: Follow Dose of Social on Instagram Subscribe on Spotify Listen on Apple Podcasts Check out our website💬 Want to be a guest or ask us a question? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you!
In this episode of Dose of Social, hosts Lindsay Mauch and Kayla Perlstein welcome Len Silverman and Bob Harms of Up to 11 Marketing. With decades of experience in advertising, branding, and leadership, Len and Bob share how their strategic-first approach helps service-based businesses grow sustainably, especially for entrepreneurs feeling stuck or overwhelmed.Here’s what we’re diving into:The importance of defining and interviewing your ideal customer before launching marketing effortsWhy strategy must come before tactics, what misfires (like unexpected rebrands) can teach usThe power of brand positioning and competitive analysis to carve out a unique market laneThe biggest marketing misconceptions: DIY tools don’t mean strategy; marketing and sales are different beastsWhy operational readiness matters when scaling and how not being prepared can backfireConnect with Len & BobWebsite: https://uptoelevenmarketing.com/LinkedIn: Up to 11 MarketingBob Harms: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-harms-uptoelevenmarketing/Len Silverman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/up-to-eleven-len/ Connect with us:Follow Dose of Social on InstagramSubscribe on SpotifyListen on Apple PodcastsCheck out our website
In this heartfelt episode of Dose of Social, Lindsay and Kayla sit down with Karri Morgan, Executive Director of the Scott Hamilton CARES Foundation, to explore how authentic storytelling and values-driven content can power a nonprofit’s mission across social media.Karri shares her inspiring journey from working with Olympian and cancer survivor Scott Hamilton to leading a national foundation focused on immunotherapy and patient-centered cancer research. From managing over 30 events a year to building high-impact content strategies, she opens up about the balance between education, fundraising, and community engagement online.Whether you run a nonprofit or just want to lead with heart on social, this episode is filled with practical takeaways and meaningful moments—including viral posts, behind-the-scenes strategies, and why one emotional radio story unexpectedly moved donors in 30+ states. Here’s what we’re diving into:How Karri met Scott Hamilton and helped him turn personal adversity into global impactThe evolution of their social media strategy—and how it supports education, awareness, and fundraisingBehind-the-scenes wins from the Scott Hamilton & Friends ice showHow survivor stories and volunteer shoutouts drive the most engagementBalancing organic vs. sponsored content as a nonprofitReal talk on donor fatigue, authenticity, and staying mission-aligned on socialWhy their cancer ribbon is upside down—and how it symbolizes infinite hope Connect with the Scott Hamilton CARES Foundation:Website: https://scottcares.orgInstagram: @teamscottcaresFacebook: Team Scott CaresLinkedIn: Scott Hamilton CARES Foundation Connect with us:Follow Dose of Social on InstagramSubscribe on SpotifyListen on Apple PodcastsCheck out our website💬 Want to be a guest or ask us a question? Reach out, we’d love to hear from you!
In this episode of Dose of Social, hosts Lindsay Mauch and Kayla Perlstein welcome Jess Kaplan, Social Strategy Manager at Orange 142. Jess shares her journey from studying journalism in California to leading social media for tourism clients across Tennessee: most notably Pigeon Forge. With her expertise in storytelling through reels, influencer collaborations, and user-generated content, Jess uncovers how to craft a social media strategy that captures the magic of a destination.Here’s what we’re diving into:How Jess and her team keep content fresh for a major tourist destination like Pigeon ForgeWhy reels and carousels are the top-performing formats for tourism brandsHow a creator-led video sparked a 50M-view campaign that directly boosted bookingsJess’s go-to tools for monthly content shoots—including the Osmo Pocket 3Best practices for working with influencers, managing UGC, and navigating trends authenticallyConnect with Jess Kaplan:Instagram: @itsjesskapLinkedIn: Jessica KaplanOrange 142: Find them on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook Connect with us:Follow Dose of Social on InstagramSubscribe on SpotifyListen on Apple PodcastsCheck out our website
In this episode of Dose of Social, we’re diving into the pros, cons, and “meh” moments of using social media scheduling tools. From efficiency wins to awkward “oops” moments (looking at you, McDonald’s placeholder post), we break down when scheduling makes sense and when it’s better to post natively.Whether you’re managing one brand or a full roster of clients, this episode gives you the practical, behind-the-scenes perspective to decide if scheduling tools are worth your budget - or if Google Sheets and native tools have you covered.Here’s what we’re diving into:The biggest pros and cons of scheduling tools for social media managersWhy “post and ghost” is the fastest way to tank engagementReal-life mishaps from pre-scheduled content (and how to avoid them)Which platforms’ native schedulers are surprisingly powerfulHow scheduling can affect reach and engagementOur take on the “optimal posting time” debate in 2025How far in advance you really need to plan contentConnect with us:Follow Dose of Social on InstagramSubscribe on SpotifyListen on Apple PodcastsCheck out our website
In this special Lindsay & Kayla episode of Dose of Social, we’re diving into a platform that’s been shaping online video for the last 20 years—YouTube. From Flip Cam nostalgia to how we’re using YouTube Shorts today, we’re breaking down everything brands, creators, and entrepreneurs need to know about showing up on YouTube in 2025.We’re sharing real-life stories, strategy tips, and exactly how we repurpose content our clients are already creating for Instagram Reels and TikTok - so you can make YouTube work for you, too.Here’s what we’re diving into:The history of YouTube and why it’s still so relevant after 20 yearsHow we use YouTube Shorts to repurpose content and expand reachWhat makes YouTube different from other platforms (hello, search power!)How to upload Shorts with the right music, keywords, and cover photosWhy YouTube has a totally different audience you might be missingOur go-to tips for optimizing your channel and video descriptionsHow we’re using Shorts inside Performance Max campaigns for clientsWhy it’s okay to start with just one video (just start!)If you’ve been on the fence about YouTube or wondering how to make it work without adding more to your plate, this episode is for you.Connect with us: Follow us on Instagram Subscribe on Spotify Listen on Apple Podcasts Visit our website💬 Questions about YouTube? DM us—we’d love to hear what you’re working on!
In this episode of Dose of Social, we’re joined by the hilarious and heartfelt Julia Fowler—actress, screenwriter, and the creator behind the Southern Women Channel. From Broadway dreams to unexpected YouTube fame, Julia walks us through how one viral video in 2012 led to a full-blown brand celebrating Southern women, traditions, and sayings (all with a good dose of lipstick and laughter).What started as a homesick creative experiment turned into a cultural movement—highlighting southern identity with charm, wit, and respect. Julia shares how her entertainment background helps her manage the chaos of producing high-quality sketch comedy online while balancing acting, screenwriting, and real life. Whether you’re a content creator, Southern girl at heart, or just love to laugh, this episode is a masterclass in authenticity, creative joy, and niche audience connection.Here’s what we’re diving into:How Julia’s Southern roots and Broadway hustle shaped her creative journeyThe accidental origins and viral rise of the Southern Women ChannelHer production workflow—from scripting 75 one-liners to editing with comedic rhythmWhy staying true to culture and tone matters in niche contentThe fine line between celebrating vs. stereotyping Southern identityCommunity, burnout, and why she still treats her YouTube as a “creative playground”Julia’s best advice for balancing humor with respect in culturally specific content Southern Women ChannelWebsite: https://southernwomenchannel.comYouTube: Southern Women ChannelInstagram: @southernwomenchannelFacebook: Southern Women ChannelTikTok: @southernwomenchannel Connect with Julia Fowler:Julia's Instagram: @jredfowler Julia's Facebook: @Julia FowlerBooks: Talk Southern to Me & Embrace Your Southern on Amazon Connect with us:Follow Dose of Social on InstagramSubscribe on SpotifyListen on Apple PodcastsCheck out our website💬 Want to be a guest or ask us a question? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you!
In this episode of Dose of Social, we catch up with Kylie Wade, founder and co-CEO of Organizing for Life, to talk about what it really takes to build a service-based business from the ground up. From her early days as a spin instructor and social media creator to working at Netflix and ultimately launching her own professional organizing company, Kylie shares how her corporate background helped her scale, systematize, and differentiate her brand. Here’s what we’re diving into:How Kylie pivoted from a career at Netflix to full-time entrepreneurshipWhy Instagram is her #1 lead source—and how she balances visuals with valueHer three go-to content pillars: projects, process, and productsWhy she positions Organizing for Life as a full-service, luxury experienceHow one viral post about a storage unit exploded—and what she learned from the commentsTools and tactics she brought from tech to scale her operations as a small teamHow she approaches social proof, media releases, and visual storytelling with respect and strategyAdvice for anyone trying to grow a service business through content—without the burnoutConnect with Kylie Wade:Website: organizingforlife.orgInstagram: @organizingforlifeFacebook: Organizing for Life Connect with Us:Follow Dose of Social on InstagramCheck out our website hereBe a member now!Subscribe for more episodes on Spotify and Apple Podcasts The conversation covers everything from social media strategy and content pillars to pricing, positioning, and how she manages the vulnerability of working in people’s homes. If you’re growing a service business and trying to stand out on social, this episode is full of tactical insights and honest perspective. 💬 Want to be a guest or ask us a question? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you!
In this episode of Dose of Social, we dive into the “unsexy but essential” side of running a business—bookkeeping and financial strategy—with Stacey Hunt, founder of Lockstep Consulting. After 30 years in corporate sales, Stacey transitioned into entrepreneurship to empower creatives and service providers to understand and manage their numbers with confidence.From the difference between bookkeepers and accountants to tools for streamlining your finances, Stacey breaks down exactly what every entrepreneur should know. Whether you're DIY-ing your books or thinking about hiring help, this episode is packed with insights on building a financially sound business that can actually grow. Here’s what we’re diving into:Stacey’s pivot from corporate sales to launching Lockstep ConsultingWhy bookkeeping isn’t just data entry—it’s strategic decision-makingThe top numbers every business owner should track: cash flow, AR/AP, marginsHow often you should actually be reviewing your financialsThe key difference between a bookkeeper and a tax accountant (and why you probably need both) Connect with Stacey Hunt:Website: https://lockstep-consulting.com/Email: stacey@lockstep-consulting.com Connect with us:Follow Dose of Social on InstagramSubscribe on SpotifyListen on Apple PodcastsCheck out our website
In this continuation of a previous episode, Lindsay and Kayla are joined once again by Emily Raiber of Emily Raiber Media for part two of their deep dive into social commerce. This time, the conversation centers on ShopMy, a fast-growing affiliate marketing and influencer platform making waves for both brands and creators.Emily explains why ShopMy is a game-changer in the world of influencer marketing, how it compares to older affiliate tools, and what every business owner needs to know before joining. If you’re a small business or content creator looking to monetize your product recommendations or partner more effectively with influencers, this episode is packed with practical tips.Here’s what we’re diving into:What ShopMy is, how it works, and why it’s gaining popularity with creators and brands alikeWhy creators of all sizes should monetize their product recommendations through affiliate linksThe cost structure of ShopMy for brands, and why it’s more than just a subscription—it requires a gifting strategy and real engagementWhat types of businesses benefit most from ShopMy and how it can complement your paid ad strategyHow ShopMy differs from traditional affiliate platforms like Commission Junction and why it’s easier, faster, and more transparent Listen to More Dose of Social:Substack and Strategy: Turning Content into Community with Emily RaiberSign Up for ShopMy: ShopMy Platform Connect with Emily:Website: emilyraibermedia.comInstagram: @emilyraibermediaShop My Storefront: shopmy.us/emilyraibermedia Connect with Us:Follow Dose of Social on InstagramCheck out our website hereBe a member now!Subscribe for more episodes on Spotify and Apple Podcasts 💬 Want to be a guest or ask us a question? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you!
In this episode of Dose of Social, we sit down with web designer and WordPress expert Henderson Lafond, founder of Madison Reid Creative, to talk all things small business websites. Henderson shares her journey from corporate life to solopreneurship, how an embroidery side hustle led to a thriving web design business, and why WordPress remains her platform of choice. Whether you're building your first site or refreshing an existing one, this conversation covers what really matters—user experience, SEO, security, and telling your brand story with clarity. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why every business—no matter the size—deserves a beautiful, functional websiteThe essential pages and features every small business site should includeTips for keeping your site secure and running smoothly over timeCommon mistakes small business owners make—and how to avoid themWhat to prioritize if you're launching a site on a small budget Connect with Henderson:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/henderson-lafond/ Website: https://madisonreidcreative.com/ Email: henderson@madisonreidcreative.com/ Follow & Subscribe:Follow Dose of Social on InstagramSubscribe for new episodes on Spotify and Apple PodcastsLearn more at doseofsocial.com 💬 Want to be a guest or ask us a question? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you!
In this episode of Dose of Social, we break down the continued rise of LinkedIn in 2025 and why it remains one of the most valuable platforms for professionals and business owners. We share firsthand strategies for optimizing content, growing authentic connections, and avoiding common engagement mistakes. From carousel tips and caption strategy to connection etiquette and company page hacks, this episode is packed with actionable insights for anyone looking to elevate their brand or business on LinkedIn.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why LinkedIn is no longer just for job seekers and recruitersThe top-performing content formats for 2025 (carousels, polls, and more)How to effectively balance personal vs. business content on LinkedInThe difference between long-form captions and LinkedIn Articles—and why both matterTips for growing your network without being spammyFeatures you may not be using (but should), like “Notify Employees” and Activity feedsEtiquette for intros, comments, and connection requests Connect with Us:Lindsay Mauch: LinkedIn | LTM DigitalKayla Perlstein: LinkedIn | Golden Bird Marketing Follow & Subscribe:Follow Dose of Social on InstagramSubscribe for new episodes on Spotify and Apple PodcastsLearn more at doseofsocial.com
In this episode of Dose of Social, Lindsay and Kayla catch up with longtime friend and sustainability advocate Derek Sabori, founder of The Underswell. With a career that started in action sports and evolved into sustainability consulting, education, and now podcasting, Derek shares the story behind launching a purpose-driven brand, why storytelling is essential for both business and career growth, and how podcasting can be a powerful tool for building a modern personal brand. If you’re navigating a career shift, this conversation is a must-listen.Connect with Derek:Website: theunderswell.comLinkedIn: Derek SaboriInstagram: @theunderswellHere’s what we’re diving into: How Derek built a career in sustainability before it was mainstreamWhy his yoga apparel brand (KOZM) ultimately shut down—and what he learned from itThe origin story of The Underswell and how it’s helping others build meaningful careersHow podcasting can be used as a tool for professional branding and visibilityWhat Gen Z really thinks about sustainability and brand loyaltyTactical advice for navigating a mid-career or late-career transitionConnect with Us:Follow Dose of Social on InstagramCheck out our website hereBe a member now!Subscribe for more episodes on Spotify and Apple Podcasts
In this episode of Dose of Social, Lindsay and Kayla sit down with Tracy Davison, founder of 3:17 Mastermind, to explore how business owners can break through entrepreneurial isolation, leverage LinkedIn to grow authentically, and build real momentum in both revenue and relationships. With a background as a high school principal and district superintendent, Tracy brings a unique leadership perspective to business strategy and peer-to-peer growth. She also gives Lindsay an on-the-spot LinkedIn audit you don’t want to miss!Connect with Tracy:LinkedIn: Tracy DavisonWebsite: 317Mastermind.comHere’s what we’re diving into: What 3:17 Mastermind is, and how it helps entrepreneurs break through isolation and grow fasterWhy LinkedIn is the most underutilized tool in the small business marketing toolboxA step-by-step guide for optimizing your LinkedIn profile (with a live audit!)How to build connection without sounding salesy (and avoid the cringe pitch)Why being vulnerable in a mastermind is the real key to breakthrough growthMore from Dose of Social: If you're unsure who your audience is, check out our episode: 👉 Hitting the Mark: How to Define Your Target AudienceConnect with Us:Follow Dose of Social on InstagramCheck out our website hereBe a member now!Subscribe for more episodes on Spotify and Apple Podcasts
In this episode of Dose of Social, we sit down with longtime friend and PR expert AJ Feuerman to dig into the nuances of public relations and social media strategy for restaurants. With experience ranging from TV networks to bagel shops, AJ brings a wealth of insight on how hospitality brands can stand out—without breaking the bank. She shares her journey from screenwriting to founding her own PR agency, tips for working with influencers, managing online reviews, and why good plating might be your best social media asset.Here’s what we’re diving into: How AJ transitioned from screenwriting to public relationsThe power of great visuals in restaurant marketingWhat PR tactics actually work for small businesses and restaurantsWhy Instagram walls and branded dog swag aren’t just cute—they’re strategicNavigating Yelp and handling bad reviews without panicInfluencer marketing on a budget: How local creators can have major impact Follow AJ:Website: ajfeuerman.comInstagram: @ajfeuermanThreads: @ajfeuermanLinkedIn: AJ Feuerman on LinkedInBrunch IG: @HollywoodBrunch Connect with Us:Follow Dose of Social on InstagramCheck out our website hereBe a member now!Subscribe for more episodes on Spotify and Apple Podcasts
We’re back for Season 3 of Dose of Social 🎉 In this episode, we kick things off with digital marketing expert Emily Raiber, Founder of Emily Raiber Media. Emily shares her unique journey from TV production to launching her own digital marketing business, and dives into why Substack is becoming a must-have tool for brands, influencers, and service-based businesses. Here’s what we’re diving into:Emily’s pivot from television to entrepreneurshipWhy Substack is perfect for newsletters, creators, and community-buildingTips for getting started on Substack (without the overwhelm!)How to grow your audience and boost engagementUsing social media to drive traffic and subscribersSubstack’s new video and podcast features—and how to use themReal-world strategies for content creators and business owners Resources:Substack – The platform for independent writers and creatorsEmily’s Substack: ER's Recs – Where Emily shares digital strategy insights and examplesKlaviyo – Email platform mentioned for eCommerce automationsMailchimp – Traditional email service compared in the episodeWhether you're new to Substack or looking to level up your content strategy, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you expand your reach and grow your digital presence.Tune in for more Dose of Social this season!