How the Instagram Algorithm ACTUALLY Works [episode 96]
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Listen to How the Instagram Algorithm ACTUALLY Works on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Your player of choice
Feeling like the Instagram algorithm is working against you?
If that’s you, you are NOT alone.
I want to break down what Instagram actually says about how content gets pushed.
And no, we’re not doing any fear tactics, gimmicks, or “secret sauce” that only marketing gurus know!
These are facts coming STRAIGHT from Instagram itself. It’s totally possible to use them to grow your reach and attract more private pay therapy clients!
In today's episode, I'm diving into how the Instagram algorithm ACTUALLY works.
First things first: you do NOT need a massive audience to fill your caseload. More followers do not automatically equal more clients.
Trust me - clear messaging matters way more!
When your content speaks directly to the right people and gives them an easy path to work with you? You’ll have a smaller (but truly aligned) audience that absolutely converts!
So, what is Instagram really prioritizing right now? Watch time, skip rate, saves, shares, likes, and comments.
All of this means Instagram wants to keep people on the app LONGER. The more engaging your content is, the more likely Instagram is to push it to new people!
Think strong hooks, niche-specific messaging, relatable content, and creating posts that make people feel SEEN. It should make them want to laugh, save, or share on their own page!
Ultimately, friend, the Instagram algorithm is NOT out to get you. Your job is not to make every Reel go viral.
Your job is to understand what’s working, build trust, and create content that connects!
If you need more help with hooks, content ideas, and Reels strategy, I’d LOVE to support you inside the Reels Membership.
Can’t wait to see you inside + celebrate the success you’ll have with your business!!
In this episode, How the Instagram Algorithm ACTUALLY Works, I cover:
Why the Instagram algorithm is not out to get you
Common misconceptions about followers, views & conversions
What Instagram actually prioritizes
Why strong hooks matter in the first 1-3 seconds
Key IG metrics to watch
How to create more likable, shareable, savable & comment-worthy content
Why connection and trust-building MATTER for engagement
How to review your analytics & spot patterns that are already working
Why you do NOT need every Reel to do everything well
A simple way to help you prove future content performance
Resources & Links:
⭐️ Instagram’s new analytics
⭐️ Example Reel of likable content
⭐️ Example Reel of shareable content
⭐️ Example Reel of savable content
⭐️ Example Reel of comment-worthy content
⭐️ This episode is sponsored by Jane - use code: KELLY2MONTH for a 2-month grace period
⭐️ This episode is sponsored by Alma, the financially rewarding way to go in-network
⭐️ Private Practice Academy Bundle (PPA)
⭐️ Reels Membership
⭐️ Business Coaching Waitlist
⭐️ Free training
⭐️ Caption Guide
Related Episodes:
More about the Business of Therapy podcast:
Are you a passionate therapist that’s burnt out and ready to transition to private pay? You’re asking yourself questions like “how do I build a business?”, “how can I effectively use Instagram to market myself” and “how can I scale a private practice?”
Welcome to the Business of Therapy podcast where we’ll answer those questions and more! Here you’ll find honest conversations about the good and the bad of being a therapist, tactical advice and best practices for marketing yourself on Instagram, and solidarity and community to find your own version of success as a therapist.
Join your host, Kelly McKenna, and her guests as they dive deeper into topics such as navigating burn out, mastering your mindset and boundaries, and tactics and strategies for marketing on Instagram, and more!
Kelly is a licensed therapist and business coach who grew her private practice on Instagram and has helped thousands of other therapists market themselves on social media, and effectively start and scale their private practice.
These episodes will leave you feeling empowered and equipped to take action towards your dream of a successful private practice.
Make sure to hit follow/subscribe so you never miss an episode!
