Episode #181
Ep 181 Timeless Marketing & Human Connection on Instagram with Shannon McKinstrie
Ep 181: Timeless Marketing & Human Connection on Instagram with Shannon McKinstrie What if the best social media strategy isn't chasing the latest algorithm hack—but simply making people feel seen, heard, and understood ? In this episode of I'm Speaking… with Elizabeth West , I'm talking with Instagram marketing expert Shannon McKinstrie about timeless marketing, authentic content, storytelling, and the power of human connection on social media. Shannon helps business owners, creators, and brands create Instagram content that doesn't just attract followers—it builds relationships and drives sales. And her approach is refreshingly human: instead of constantly trying to figure out what the algorithm wants, focus on what people want. We talk about why Shannon compares Instagram to an airport lounge, how storytelling builds trust, and why relatable, authentic content can be more powerful than perfectly polished posts. Why human connection is at the heart of effective social media marketing The timeless marketing principles that matter regardless of algorithm changes How to create Instagram content that makes your audience feel seen and heard Why storytelling is such a powerful way to build trust Creating authentic content when you're camera-shy or don't want to share everything publicly How simple photos, text posts, carousels, Reels, and Stories can all create connection Using comments and DMs to build a genuine Instagram community Ways to make social media marketing easier and less overwhelming Neurodivergence and creating a social media strategy you can actually sustain Balancing automation and authenticity—including AI-generated content Using Instagram Stories to connect with your audience and sell How real-life conversations and experiences can inspire great content Why you don't have to reveal your entire personal life to show up authentically online One of my favorite takeaways from this conversation is the reminder that marketing is ultimately about people—not algorithms. And that connects directly to the message behind my audiobook, From Selfless to Self-Love . For many introverts, empaths, and highly sensitive people, being visible can feel uncomfortable. We may be used to taking care of everyone else, staying behind the scenes, or questioning whether it's okay to take up space. But self-love also means learning to be seen, use your voice, trust yourself, and show up in a way that feels authentic to you. You don't have to become someone else to market your business. You don't have to be on camera every day. And you don't have to sacrifice your boundaries or your energy to build meaningful connections. You can market in a way that feels like you . FROM SELFLESS TO SELF-LOVE My Founding Listener Audiobook Pre-Sale is open! As a Founding Listener, you'll receive access to the audiobook content as new chapters and sections are completed. Get the Founding Listener Audiobook Pre-Sale First-time purchaser reminder: Your purchase/access email may land in your spam, junk, or promotions folder. Be sure to check those folders and add my email address to your contacts so you don't miss future audiobook updates. Learn more about Shannon's work, her Good Content podcast, free Content Strategy Course, and Reels Lab membership through her online community and resources. Website ️ Listen to the Podcast From Selfless to Self-Love Audiobook Join the Newsletter Instagram Thank you for listening. I appreciate you more than you'll ever know. Elizabeth
