Dose of Social: Actionable Social Media Tips for Small Businesses and Brands

Lindsay Mauch and Kayla Perlstein
  • 5.0 (21)
  • MARKETING

Welcome to Dose of Social, your go-to podcast for everything social media! Whether you're a solopreneur, small business owner, aspiring content creator, or simply looking to level up your online presence. Kayla and Lindsay are here to dish out expert tips and strategies to help you thrive in the digital world. Tune in as we explore the latest trends, decode algorithms, and share the secrets to growing an engaged audience. Each episode serves up actionable advice and inspiring interviews with top social media pros, all designed to help you craft your own recipe for social media success.

  1. 1D AGO

    Legal Must-Haves for Online Business Owners with The Boutique Lawyer

    In this episode of Dose of Social, I’m joined by Amber Gilormo, founder of The Boutique Lawyer, to talk about the legal side of building an online business without making it feel overwhelming. As an online business and trademark attorney, Amber breaks down where entrepreneurs should actually start when it comes to legal protection—and why the goal isn’t to do everything at once, but to protect yourself and your revenue in the right order. We talk through the contracts, clauses, and policies small business owners need to think about early on, plus the biggest misconceptions Amber sees in the online space. She also shares smart perspective on AI, client disputes, and why your legal setup should evolve as your business grows. If you’ve been putting off the legal side of your business, this conversation is a practical and empowering place to begin. Here’s what we’re diving into: Why proving your business idea can make money should come before overinvesting in legal setupWhen it makes sense to form an LLCThe first contracts and website policies service providers should have in placeKey contract clauses to review around payments, cancellations, and intellectual propertyWhen to move from templates to hiring a lawyerThe risks of relying on AI to draft legal documentsConnect with Amber Gilormo: Website: https://theboutiquelawyer.com Instagram: @theboutiquelawyer Facebook: The Boutique Lawyer Connect with us: Follow Dose of Social on Instagram Subscribe on Spotify Listen on Apple Podcasts Check out our website

    34 min

  2. MAR 4

    Influencer Marketing Strategy with Bilal Kaiser of Agency Guacamole

    In this episode of Dose of Social, we sit down with Bilal Kaiser, founder and principal of Agency Guacamole, as he shares what it really takes to execute influencer marketing and event strategy that actually drives results. With his agency celebrating 10 years in business, Bilal walks us through how influencer mailers, strategic sampling, and experiential events fit into a modern marketing mix—especially in the beauty and lifestyle space. We unpack what separates thoughtful seeding from “spray and pray,” how to set realistic ROI expectations, and why storytelling—not just packaging—makes a mailer stand out. Bilal also dives into how events have evolved post-COVID, how brands can create truly shareable moments, and why community management is critical after the event ends. If you’re a brand navigating influencer marketing or an entrepreneur building in a fast-changing space, this episode is packed with practical insights. Here’s what we’re diving into: The four core types of influencer programs (ambassador, paid, seeding, UGC scale)Strategic sampling vs random product giftingHow to find and vet creators (and when to work with “overnight influencers”)What makes a PR mailer stand out in a crowded marketExtending the life of an event through digital strategyEntrepreneur lessons: knowing your value, building your network, and staying nimbleConnect with Bilal Kaiser: Agency Guacamole: https://www.agencyguacamole.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/agencyguacamole Bilal’s Instagram: https://instagram.com/bilalkaiser LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bilalkaiser B.L.N.D. (Beauty, Lifestyle & Nurturing Diversity): https://www.agencyguacamole.com/blnd-beauty-lifestyle-nurturing-diversity-inclusion Connect 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!

    34 min

  3. FEB 25

    How to Grow on Threads with Natalie Mitchell

    In this episode of Dose of Social, we’re joined by the incredible Natalie Mitchell, the force behind Nat Runs Far. Natalie is a running coach, podcast host, race announcer, and mom of three who’s built a thriving presence across social media—all while keeping it refreshingly real. We dive deep into her unexpected (and completely organic) growth on Threads, where she’s amassed over 69,000 followers. Natalie shares how she went from casually joining the platform to sparking meaningful conversations and building an active community without gimmicks, trends, or high-production content. Here’s what we’re diving into: Natalie’s journey from marathoner and blogger to podcaster and social media coachHow she grew her Threads account to 69K+ followers—without trying to go viralThe importance of listening and asking questions to drive engagementTips for new users on Threads: how to start, what to post, and how to get seenThe surprising way community and conversation still matter in 2026Mistakes to avoid on Threads (hint: don’t lead with negativity)How to use niche groups like "Running Threads" to get discoveredConnect with Natalie Mitchell: Website: http://www.natrunsfar.com/ Instagram: @natrunsfar Threads: @natrunsfar Podcast: Suite Run Podcast Connect with us: Follow Dose of Social on Instagram Subscribe on Spotify Listen on Apple Podcasts Check out our website 🎤 Know someone who should be on the show? Or want to hear about a specific topic? Let us know, we’d love to hear from you!

    35 min

  4. FEB 18

    Old Social vs. New Social: What to Know in 2026 Part 2

    In this episode of Dose of Social, we’re unpacking one of our favorite topics: how social media has completely changed—and what brands need to let go of if they want to grow today. We’re breaking down the mindset shift from vanity metrics to real engagement, why follower count means almost nothing in 2026, and what’s actually working when it comes to strategy. From one bot-gone-wrong story to the importance of pairing paid with organic, we’re getting real about what it takes to show up, stand out, and build community in the era of new social. Here’s what we’re diving into: The difference between old social and new social—and why it mattersWhy fake followers hurt your paid strategy (not just your ego)Our favorite story about a follower-buying disaster 😬Why organic growth is harder than ever—and what to focus on insteadWhat we tell clients every time they ask about posting frequencyHow we help brands embrace video (even when they don’t want to)The real role of stories, engagement, and community todayWhat to unlearn if you’re still stuck in 2018 tacticsConnect with us: Follow Dose of Social on Instagram Subscribe on Spotify Listen on Apple Podcasts Check out our website 💬 Questions? Feedback? Want to work together? Hit us up—we’d love to chat.

    28 min

  5. FEB 11

    Old Social vs. New Social: What to Know in 2026

    In this episode of Dose of Social, we take a nostalgic-meets-strategic look at the evolution of social media—from the carefree MySpace and early Instagram days to today’s video-first, pay-to-play landscape. We unpack how the shift from photo-based posting to dynamic, video-driven content has transformed the expectations for creators, business owners, and marketers alike. You’ll hear how organic social used to be enough, why that’s no longer the case, and what modern brands must do to stay visible and competitive in 2026 and beyond. This episode is packed with insights around how to blend organic content with paid strategy, the rising importance of founder-led content, and why testing, data, and adaptability matter more than ever. Here’s what we’re diving into: The difference between “old” and “new” social—and why real-time reels rule todayWhy brands can’t rely on organic alone (and what actually works now)The meaning of "pay to play" and how platforms like Meta limit organic reachThe shift from curated feeds to raw, personality-driven contentWhat Instagram rewards right now (think reels, storytelling carousels, and in-app tools)Connect with us: Follow Dose of Social on Instagram Subscribe on Spotify Listen on Apple Podcasts Check out our website 💬 Have a question or want to be a guest? Slide into our DMs—we'd love to hear from you!

    22 min

  6. 12/11/2025

    Why Reels Matter: Part Two

    In this episode of Dose of Social, we dive into all things production and filming: covering what brands and business owners need to know to create high-quality, engaging reels without a big budget or crew. From lighting and audio to framing and editing, we break down what actually makes a difference when you're shooting content for Instagram, TikTok, and beyond. Whether you're DIY-ing your reels or managing a shoot with a team, this episode is packed with practical advice—and gear recs!—that you can start using right away. Here’s what we’re diving into: Why lighting and audio are more important than fancy camerasThe importance of framing plus common shooting mistakes to avoidHow to shoot with editing in mind (especially if adding captions or graphics)Lindsay and Kayla’s must-have tools for creators: including mics, gimbals, ring lights, and moreThe difference between wired and wireless mics and why they recently switchedTips for shooting in noisy environments or low-light spacesHow to get the most out of short, intentional shoots (even in under 2 hours)Tools mentioned in this episode: DJI Mic Mini Wireless Microphones → Buy on Amazon – $99DJI OM 5 Gimbal Stabilizer → View on DJIRectangular Handheld LED Light → See options on AmazonMagnetic Phone Ring Light → Shop on TikTok Shop or AmazonConnect 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 a question? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you!

    23 min

  7. 12/05/2025

    Why Reels Matter: Part One

    In this episode of Dose of Social, co-hosts we dive deep into the power of Instagram Reels and why short-form video content is non-negotiable in today’s digital landscape. With over 2 billion Reels played daily across Meta platforms, it's clear: Reels aren’t just a trend—they’re a must for growth and visibility. We will go over how business owners, marketers, and creators can embrace Reels without feeling overwhelmed. From planning content with intention to using shot lists and batching strategies, they share real examples and tactical advice to help you simplify video production and stay ahead of the algorithm. Here’s what we’re diving into: Why Reels outperform static posts and carousels on Instagram The psychology behind short-form video engagement (hint: it’s addictive!) Easy Reels ideas for service providers and product-based brands How to batch create Reels content efficiently for events and shoots Why captions matter—and how to make Reels scroll-stopping Tips for leveraging trending audio strategically, not just for the sake of it The importance of hooks, shot lists, and quick turnaround for relevance Whether you're a restaurant owner, content creator, or personal brand, this episode will leave you with the tools and confidence to start showing up on Reels—no dancing required. Connect with us: Follow Dose of Social on Instagram Subscribe on Spotify Listen on Apple Podcasts Check out our website 💬 Have a reel you're proud of? Tag us or DM us—we want to see it!

    14 min

  8. 11/19/2025

    Authentic Automation Strategies with Anna Tutckaia of Manychat

    In this episode of Dose of Social, we sit down with Anna Tutckaia, VP of Growth Marketing at Manychat, to uncover how creators and brands are revolutionizing one‑on‑one engagement in an era where follower count alone isn’t king. Anna breaks down how Manychat’s chat automation tools help creators turn comments into meaningful DMs—and ultimately, into stronger relationships and revenue. Anna walks us through her six‑to‑seven‑year journey at Manychat, where she’s helped evolve the platform from a Messenger‑only tool into a multi‑channel social engagement engine (including Instagram, WhatsApp, and soon TikTok). She shares how the rise of creator culture and AI‑driven content means authentic connection and community trust are now more important than ever. Here’s what we’re diving into: Anna’s growth journey at Manychat: what her role really entails Why follower count is no longer the primary metric for success—engagement is How creators use Manychat to transform comments and follows into real conversations The concept of “authentic automation” and how to strike the balance between tech and human tone Common automation mistakes to avoid (e.g.,: sounding too robotic, masking bots as humans) Why small‑niche creators are winning in 2025—and how larger brands can learn from them Predictions for the next two years in creator‑led social: AI content overload, private spaces, deeper community focus Connect with Anna Tutckaia: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annatutckaia Instagram: @annatutckaia Website: manychat.com Connect 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!

    35 min
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5
out of 5
21 Ratings

About

Welcome to Dose of Social, your go-to podcast for everything social media! Whether you're a solopreneur, small business owner, aspiring content creator, or simply looking to level up your online presence. Kayla and Lindsay are here to dish out expert tips and strategies to help you thrive in the digital world. Tune in as we explore the latest trends, decode algorithms, and share the secrets to growing an engaged audience. Each episode serves up actionable advice and inspiring interviews with top social media pros, all designed to help you craft your own recipe for social media success.

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