Social Media Decoded

What if one DM… one cease-and-desist… or one copyright flag could shut down everything you’ve built online? In this episode of Social Media Decoded, Michelle sits down with Kailey Jacomet, founder of Brand Law Boutique, to break down the real legal risks creators, influencers, and online business owners face—often without even realizing it. If you post, sell, collaborate, or build community online, this episode is a must-listen. Inside this episode, we cover: Why one Instagram report or DM from a lawyer can shut down your business overnight The #1 trademark mistake entrepreneurs make before launching a brand The real difference between and (and why it matters more than you think) A 60-second name search checklist to avoid expensive rebrands How creators unknowingly cross copyright lines with reels, audios, and reposts Why “fair use” doesn’t always protect you on platforms like Instagram or TikTok What brands can legally do with your name, image, and content if your contract is weak The non-negotiable clauses every influencer and creator should look for (or demand) The one legal template every online business should invest in first You’ll learn: How to protect your brand before it scales How to avoid being bullied by bigger companies How to collaborate confidently without signing your rights away How to stay visible, profitable, and legally protected Resources mentioned: Contract templates + website policies Trademark education + legal planning tools Exclusive listener discount (code in episode description) If this episode saved you from a future legal headache (or a five-figure mistake), screenshot it, share it, and tag @michellelthames + @kaileyjacomet with your biggest takeaway. Post proudly. Sell smart. Protect your brand at all costs. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Social Media Decoded, Michelle Thames breaks down the rise of ragebait content and asks the real question most marketers avoid: does it actually build brands, or just inflate engagement? Drawing from years of experience in marketing, visibility, and personal brand strategy, Michelle explains why ragebait works, when it hurts your credibility, and who should avoid it altogether. This episode helps entrepreneurs, creators, and business owners understand how to stand out without sacrificing trust, authority, or long-term growth. Topics Covered What ragebait content actually is Why ragebait performs well on social media platforms The psychology behind outrage and engagement When ragebait damages brand trust and credibility The difference between thought leadership and clickbait Who ragebait works for and who it hurts How to build visibility without relying on controversy Why clarity and positioning matter more than attention Key Takeaways Ragebait drives engagement, but not always conversion Attention without trust does not lead to clients Decision-makers buy clarity, not chaos Thought leadership challenges ideas without eroding credibility Strategic visibility outperforms short-term virality Who This Episode Is For Entrepreneurs building personal brands Creators who want authority, not just engagement Business owners tired of chasing algorithms Coaches, consultants, and service providers Brands focused on long-term growth and trust If you want support building visibility that attracts aligned clients instead of just attention, join the Collective for ongoing strategy, feedback, and proximity. https://michellethames.com/elevate-and-empower-collective Follow Social Media Decoded for daily conversations on marketing, visibility, and brand growth. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Social Media Decoded, Michelle Thames breaks down the real difference between a social media manager and a social media strategist — and why confusing the two can cost businesses time, money, and momentum. Michelle explains how strategy and execution serve different purposes, the most common hiring mistakes business owners make, and how choosing the right support at the right time can dramatically change results. This episode is essential listening for entrepreneurs, founders, and brands deciding how to invest in their marketing and visibility in 2026. Topics Covered The difference between social media management and social media strategy Posting content vs planning a visibility ecosystem Why execution without strategy leads to wasted effort How strategy saves money long-term Common hiring mistakes business owners make When to hire a strategist vs when to hire a manager How clarity impacts content, growth, and conversion Why roles, timing, and expectations matter Key Takeaways A social media manager executes content, a strategist designs the plan Posting consistently does not equal strategic growth Strategy provides direction, focus, and measurable outcomes Hiring the wrong role at the wrong time creates frustration Clear strategy makes execution more effective and efficient Who This Episode Is For Business owners hiring marketing support Entrepreneurs confused about social media roles Brands struggling with inconsistent results Founders preparing to scale visibility in 2026 Creators transitioning from DIY to professional support If you need clarity before hiring or scaling your marketing, explore working with Michelle’s agency for strategic support. www.thamesmediasolutions.com For ongoing proximity, feedback, and visibility guidance, join the Collective. https://michellethames.com/elevate-and-empower-collective About the Host Michelle Thames is a marketing strategist, podcast host, and community builder with over 15 years of experience helping brands and entrepreneurs build visibility systems that convert. She specializes in strategy-first marketing, community-led growth, and sustainable brand ecosystems. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Social Media Decoded, Michelle Thames breaks down the marketing trends that will actually matter in 2026 and the ones she’s intentionally ignoring. Drawing from 15+ years of experience in marketing, community building, and visibility strategy, Michelle explains why fundamentals still outperform hype and how brands can build longevity instead of chasing short-term momentum. This episode is for entrepreneurs, creators, and business owners who want sustainable visibility, stronger relationships, and marketing strategies that work across every season of business. Topics Covered Why most marketing trends don’t last The difference between momentum and longevity Community-led marketing and why it’s the future Thought leadership vs performance-based content Why owned audiences matter more than algorithms Trends Michelle is intentionally ignoring in 2026 Why virality does not equal business growth How clarity, consistency, and trust still win Building a visibility ecosystem instead of chasing platforms Key Takeaways Trends are loud, but foundations compound quietly Community creates trust, referrals, and long-term growth Decision-makers buy clarity, not aesthetics Owned audiences protect your business from platform shifts Mastery on one platform beats being everywhere Fundamentals never go out of style Who This Episode Is For Entrepreneurs planning for 2026 growth Creators tired of chasing trends and burning out Business owners focused on long-term visibility Brands ready to build community, not just content Leaders who want marketing strategies that last If you want support building a sustainable visibility strategy and community-led ecosystem, join the Collective for ongoing proximity, strategy, and feedback. Make sure to follow Social Media Decoded so you don’t miss future episodes on visibility, marketing, and brand growth. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What if slowing down isn’t a setback — but a signal? In this episode of Social Media Decoded, marketing strategist and community builder Michelle Thames shares a real-time reflection after hosting her Elevate & Align retreat, where she unexpectedly lost her voice and was forced to pause, reschedule brand deals, and listen to what her body was communicating. This short but powerful episode explores the connection between visibility, leadership, alignment, and sustainability, especially for entrepreneurs who feel pressure to constantly show up online. If you’ve been feeling stretched thin, burned out, or disconnected from your visibility, this conversation will help you reframe momentum and lead with clarity instead of hustle. Topics Covered in This Episode What it means when your body forces you to slow down How alignment shows up physically, not just mentally The relationship between sustainable visibility and leadership Why constant output doesn’t equal long-term success How slowing down can create clearer direction and momentum Who Should Listen Entrepreneurs navigating burnout or exhaustion Creators struggling with consistency and visibility Business owners leading teams, brands, or communities Anyone feeling pressure to “do more” to stay relevant Key Insight Sustainable visibility isn’t about pushing harder — it’s about listening sooner.Slowing down can be the most strategic leadership move you make. About the Podcast Social Media Decoded breaks down what actually works in social media, branding, visibility, and community-led growth — without burnout culture or empty marketing trends. Hosted by marketing strategist Michelle Thames, the show covers leadership, digital marketing strategy, visibility, content, and building brands that last. If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who needs permission to slow down and lead differently. Check out the collective: https://michellethames.com/elevate-and-empower-collective Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

If you feel like Instagram isn’t working anymore, this episode will change how you think about visibility. In this episode of Social Media Decoded, Michelle Thames breaks down why the Instagram algorithm isn’t the real problem — and how unclear strategy, weak positioning, and misaligned content are what actually block reach, engagement, and conversions. Michelle explains what Instagram truly rewards, why chasing trends leads to burnout, and how clarity consistently outperforms creativity. This episode is for entrepreneurs and creators who want sustainable visibility, not viral luck. If you are tired of guessing, posting more without results, or blaming the algorithm, this conversation will help you see Instagram through a strategic lens and move forward with confidence. Want honest feedback on what’s blocking your Instagram visibility?DM AUDIT on Instagram to request an Instagram audit. For ongoing strategy, proximity, and visibility support, explore Michelle’s community, the Collective. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special LIVE edition of Social Media Decoded, host Michelle Thames sits down with Julia Hartz, CEO and co-founder of Eventbrite, for a powerful conversation on the future of events, visibility, and real-world connection. As live experiences make a major comeback, Julia shares why events are no longer a “nice-to-have,” but a core visibility and community-building strategy for creators, entrepreneurs, and brands. Together, Michelle and Julia explore: How events have evolved as a visibility and growth tool Why real connection is becoming more valuable than algorithms The rise of niche, intimate, and under-the-radar experiences Common mistakes event hosts make — and how to fix them What great leaders and community builders do differently Julia also gives a sneak peek into Eventbrite’s 2026 trend report, “Social Study: Reset to Real,” highlighting how the most social generation is redefining connection through: Off-Script Energy — embracing spontaneity and unpredictability Soft Socializing — connection without pressure Layers, Not Labels — blending niches, cultures, and interests for richer experiences If you’re building community, hosting events, or looking for new ways to grow your visibility in 2026, this episode is a must-listen. This episode was recorded live and is available in audio and video format on all podcast platforms. Key Topics Covered Live events as a visibility strategy Community-driven growth Authentic leadership and hosting Event marketing trends for 2026 How creators can stand out offline and online Resources Mentioned Eventbrite 2026 Trend Report: Social Study: Reset to Real https://www.eventbrite.com/social-study-trends/ Eventbrite platform for creators & community hosts If this episode inspired you, share it with a fellow entrepreneur or event host and tag us. Let’s keep building community with intention. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Social Media Decoded, Michelle Thames explains why webinars and live events still convert in today’s marketing landscape and why many businesses believe they no longer work. She breaks down what actually kills conversions, how trust is built in live rooms, and the mindset shift required to turn visibility into real action. What This Episode Covers Why webinars and live events still work when designed with intention The biggest mistakes that prevent live experiences from converting How live rooms build trust faster than content alone The difference between teaching and creating connection Why clarity and positioning matter more than audience size How to think about live experiences as trust accelerators What to do before and after a live event to support conversion Who This Episode Is For Entrepreneurs hosting webinars or live events Coaches and consultants struggling with low conversion Business owners who want deeper trust with their audience Creators who feel visible but not connected Key Takeaways Live experiences convert when they are built for trust, not performance Small, intentional rooms often outperform large audiences Conversion starts before the room opens and continues after it closes Visibility works best when paired with clarity and direction Call to Action If you want help creating live experiences that actually convert, explore Visibility Power Hours or join The Collective for ongoing strategy and support. Links are available in the show notes. https://michellethames.com/elevate-and-empower-collective About the Host Michelle Thames is a marketing strategist, speaker, and community builder who helps entrepreneurs turn visibility into real opportunities through intentional strategy and relationship-led marketing. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It’s been a heavy start to 2026. In this real, raw episode, Michelle Thames opens up about navigating deep personal loss while running a business and showing up online. After losing her stepfather, cousin, and a childhood friend within days, Michelle reflects on how grief collides with the pressure to stay visible on social media. This episode explores the social media side of grief—why algorithms don’t pause when life hits, how burnout accelerates when we force content through pain, and what it really means to take a break without guilt or shame. Michelle shares both personal insight and expert perspective on sustainable visibility, rest, and long-term brand integrity. If you’re grieving, overwhelmed, or feeling pressure to “keep going” online when your heart needs space, this conversation is for you. What You’ll Learn in This Episode How grief shows up in a social media–driven world Why “rest is not a failure of consistency” The hidden cost of forcing content during emotional exhaustion How to pause, scale back, or shift visibility without losing momentum What presence looks like when perfection isn’t possible Permission to grieve without performing online Key Topics Discussed Grief and social media Rest and visibility as a business owner Burnout prevention for entrepreneurs Sustainable content creation Mental health and online presence Taking breaks without losing your audience Human-centered leadership and brand longevity This episode is for: Entrepreneurs navigating grief or emotional burnout Content creators feeling pressure to stay visible Business owners who want sustainable visibility Anyone grieving a loss while still showing up for others Powerful Quotes from the Episode “Grief doesn’t move at the speed of content.” “Rest is not a failure of consistency. It’s a strategy for longevity.” “Your audience doesn’t need perfection. They need presence.” “You are not behind. You are not lazy. You are not failing.” Listener Takeaway You are allowed to pause.You are allowed to grieve.And your voice will still matter when you return. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

If you’ve been posting consistently but still wondering “Why aren’t my lead magnets converting?” or “Where are my aligned clients?” — this episode is a must-listen. In today’s conversation, Michelle Thames is joined by Lauren Najar, a business coach and lead strategist who helps women entrepreneurs turn visibility into real revenue — without burnout, constant posting, or chasing algorithms. This episode breaks down what’s actually working in 2025 when it comes to lead generation, intentional visibility, and building a sales ecosystem rooted in relationships. Lauren shares why most entrepreneurs already have leads (they just aren’t tracking them), why content alone isn’t enough anymore, and how simple conversations can turn into consistent clients. In This Episode, We Cover: Why “not having leads” is usually a tracking problem, not a visibility problem How to use Instagram intentionally as a top-of-funnel tool Why follower count does not equal income The biggest mistake entrepreneurs make relying on content alone What intentional visibility really looks like in 2025 How to build a lead ecosystem that fits your business model The truth about lead magnets — and why most PDFs don’t convert What types of lead magnets actually work right now The most underrated lead generation strategy: DM relationships Key Takeaway: You don’t need more content — you need more intentional conversations and better systems to track and nurture the leads you already have. Connect with Lauren: Instagram: @laurennajar Website: laurennajar.com Free Resource: 30-Day Sales & Visibility Challenge If you enjoyed this episode, tag @michellelthames and @socialmediadecodedpod on Instagram and let us know your biggest takeaway. Stay visible and stay empowered. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

this episode of Social Media Decoded, Michelle Thames explains why Instagram audits are one of the fastest and most effective ways to fix visibility issues. Instead of guessing what to post or chasing content hacks, Michelle breaks down how audits create clarity, improve positioning, and lead to more meaningful engagement and conversion. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why most people struggle with Instagram visibility because they guess instead of audit What an Instagram audit actually reveals about your brand and messaging The first things Michelle looks for when reviewing an Instagram account Why clarity and positioning matter more than posting frequency How connection and consistency impact trust and conversion Why feedback accelerates visibility faster than trends or hacks How Instagram audits fit into long-term, sustainable visibility strategy Key Topics Covered: Instagram audits for business growth Visibility strategy for entrepreneurs Personal brand positioning on Instagram Community and connection over metrics Content clarity and consistency Sustainable social media marketing Fixing low engagement and conversion Who This Episode Is For: Entrepreneurs who feel visible but not effective Creators tired of guessing what to post Business owners struggling with low engagement or conversion Anyone who wants clearer direction for their Instagram strategy Mentioned in This Episode: Why content hacks don’t fix foundational visibility issues How audits uncover blind spots you can’t see on your own The importance of having a clear next step for your audience DM the word AUDIT on Instagram for a free Instagram audit, and explore Michelle’s Collective for ongoing support, strategy, and community. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Michelle Thames shares a behind-the-scenes look at the systems and tools that power her six-figure visibility ecosystem — without a big team or burnout. Learn how to think about tools strategically, reduce decision fatigue, and build sustainable visibility that actually converts. Topics Covered: Visibility systems for entrepreneurs How to scale visibility without burnout Email marketing as a visibility foundation Long-form content and podcast leverage Simplifying marketing tools Community-led visibility Sustainable content strategy DM “TOOLS” on Instagram to see Michelle’s exact systems and join The Collective for ongoing visibility support. https://michellethames.com/elevate-and-empower-collective Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Social Media Decoded, Michelle Thames shares a grounded visibility reset for entrepreneurs heading into 2026. Instead of chasing trends or posting more, this conversation focuses on clarity, community, leadership energy, and building a sustainable visibility ecosystem that actually converts. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why visibility in 2026 is less about volume and more about intention The biggest misconceptions about visibility that are leading to burnout How clarity outperforms consistency when it comes to being remembered Why community and relationships matter more than reach and metrics The importance of building a visibility ecosystem instead of relying on one platform How leadership energy changes the way people respond to your brand Why visibility is ultimately an identity decision, not a marketing tactic Key Topics Covered: Visibility strategy for 2026 Community-led marketing Personal brand clarity Sustainable content creation Relationship-driven growth Thought leadership and calm authority Building trust and long-term visibility Marketing alignment and burnout prevention Who This Episode Is For: Entrepreneurs and creators who feel visible but not connected Business owners tired of chasing algorithms and trends Leaders who want clarity, confidence, and sustainable growth Anyone building a personal brand, community, or long-term platform Mentioned In This Episode: Visibility as a long-term strategy, not a quick win Why platforms change but relationships compound How to approach 2026 with intention and leadership Call to Action: If you’re ready for visibility that feels aligned and sustainable, explore Michelle’s Collective for ongoing support, clarity, and community — and follow the podcast for daily conversations on marketing, visibility, and leadership. https://michellethames.com/elevate-and-empower-collective Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Michelle breaks down the real impact of publishing 365 podcast episodes and how daily consistency transforms authority, visibility, and brand trust. Learn why podcasting is the most powerful platform for thought leadership and how it fuels your entire business ecosystem going into 2026. What You’ll Learn:• What daily podcasting builds for your brand• Why thought leadership matters more than aesthetics• How podcast listeners convert faster• Why podcasting creates long-term authority• How a podcast grows your entire ecosystem• Why Michelle is doubling down on her podcast in 2026• Why community and proximity accelerate everything• The visibility strategy that actually works in 2026 Join The Collective and follow the show for daily episodes. https://michellethames.com/elevate-and-empower-collective Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Michelle shares her non-negotiable visibility rules for 2026 — what she’s done doing, what she’s doubling down on, and why simplicity will outperform trends in the new year. Learn the strategies that actually convert, how thought leadership shapes visibility, and why proximity and community are the real power moves for 2026. What You’ll Learn: • Michelle’s 2026 visibility framework • What no longer works in the visibility landscape • Why podcasting is still the #1 authority builder • How community outperforms content • Why simplicity leads to consistency • What to focus on if you want real growth in 2026 • Why The Collective is the next step for deeper proximity • How your story becomes your strategy Join the Collective before January ($67/month) and grab Michelle’s book bundle for deeper clarity + direction. Get the book bundle here Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this Christmas Day episode, Michelle Thames breaks down why proximity—not algorithms, not aesthetics, not trends—is the true multiplier of visibility, opportunities, and revenue. Learn how rooms, relationships, and community create long-term success and why The Collective was built as a powerful proximity container for women entrepreneurs stepping into 2026 with clarity and intention. What You’ll Learn:• Why proximity changed Michelle’s career• How relationships create opportunities• Why rooms are more valuable than reach• Why community-led visibility beats trends• What access really means in 2026• What The Collective offers• How Visibility Power Hours accelerate clarity Join The Collective for $67/month to access community, coaching, and proximity. Use code DECODED to saveBook a Visibility Power Hour if you need fast clarity for 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this Christmas Eve episode, Michelle Thames breaks down why aesthetics alone don’t create revenue — thought leadership does. Learn why decision-makers buy clarity, how to position yourself as a leader in your industry, and what thought leadership actually looks like in 2026. If you want to build trust, community, and consistent visibility, this episode will shift your entire approach. Topics Covered:• Why pretty feeds don’t equal paydays• The real reason decision-makers invest• What true thought leadership looks like• Why clarity and POV outperform trends• How to build trust and authority online• Why community-led visibility matters for 2026• How podcast listeners convert faster• How to shift from “performing” to leading conversations• Why The Collective is the next step for leaders Join The Collective — $97/month for monthly strategy, networking, and proximity to Michelle. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Michelle breaks down why Threads is becoming THE most important visibility platform of 2026. Learn how conversation-based content is outperforming trends, why early adopters will win big next year, and how to leverage Threads to humanize your brand, build community, and turn casual followers into connected buyers. She also shares how she uses Threads daily to boost authority, spark conversions, and deepen relationships. Topics Covered:• Why the old social media model is dead• Why Threads is outperforming TikTok and IG for connection• Early-mover visibility advantages• Conversation-based marketing vs content-based marketing• How Michelle uses Threads strategically• 5 ways to grow your visibility on Threads in 2026• How community accelerates conversions Thanks for listening!• Follow Michelle on Threads + IG @michellelthames• Grab the $97 Visibility & Clarity Book Bundle Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this powerful episode of Social Media Decoded, Michelle Thames breaks down why “reach” and visibility alone are no longer enough to sustain a successful business or brand. She explains why community-led visibility is the future, what happens when people see you but don’t actually know you, and how trust, relationships, and proximity drive conversions in today’s online world. If you’re tired of posting without results and crave something deeper, this conversation will change the way you approach marketing forever. Topics Covered Why visibility alone no longer converts What happens when people see you but don’t feel connected Why community builds trust, referrals, and loyalty The difference between audience and community How relationships compound even when platforms change Why Threads and conversation-based platforms are thriving Why Michelle built the Elevate & Empower Collective How community-led visibility creates sustainable success Key Takeaways Visibility creates awareness — community creates trust Relationships scale your business faster than algorithms Engagement without connection doesn’t convert Long-term success comes from community, not content volume You don’t need more followers — you need deeper relationships Resources Mentioned Elevate & Empower Collective – Join the room that supports your visibility, clarity, and community. Connect With Michelle Instagram: @michellelthamesLinkedIn: Michelle ThamesPodcast: Social Media Decoded For partnerships, speaking, or consulting inquiries:michelle@michellelthames.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this powerful episode of Social Media Decoded, Michelle Thames shares the exact moment she realized her network held million-dollar value — not metaphorically, but in real opportunities, partnerships, speaking invitations, and client referrals. She breaks down how proximity accelerates business growth, why community is a strategic advantage, and why She Connects and the Collective are intentionally designed to help women build the relationships that open doors. Topics Covered Why relationships are more valuable than algorithms The moment Michelle realized her network was an asset How proximity accelerates visibility, confidence, and opportunities The real purpose behind She Connects Why community-led growth outperforms content-only strategies How to build a network that drives revenue and referrals Key Takeaways Your network can be worth millions when nurtured with intention Proximity is the fastest accelerator in business Community is a strategic advantage, not a “nice to have” The right room will open doors that content can’t Building alone slows your growth — connection collapses time Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.