Tips for Losing Weight During the Holiday Season

losing weight during the holiday season blog header

Expert tips for staying fit during the holidays. Enjoy Thanksgiving and Christmas meals without guilt while maintaining your weight loss goals.

Lose Weight During the Holiday Season: Expert Strategies That Actually Work

The holiday season is here, and if you’re worried about losing your fitness momentum between Thanksgiving dinner and New Year’s Eve, you’re not alone. Every year, millions of people face the same dilemma: How do you enjoy the holidays without undoing months of hard work?

The good news? You don’t have to choose between celebrating with loved ones and staying committed to your health goals. The key is having a solid strategy that allows you to enjoy holiday meals while keeping your fitness routine intact.

In one of this week’s episodes of More Movement Please, I tackled this exact challenge. 

I shared my personal plan for navigating Thanksgiving and the entire holiday season, including science-backed tips on mindful eating, the plate method, and why working out on Thanksgiving (and Christmas!) morning sets the tone for the entire day.

If you haven’t listened yet, check it out here:

You can stay on track without sacrificing the joy of the season.

To give you even more expert guidance, I reached out to fitness professionals, nutritionists, and health experts for their top tips on maintaining your progress through the holidays.

Here’s what they had to say:

Stay Strong and Active Through Holiday Season

I spend each day with patients wanting better mobility, a stronger physique, and healthy lifestyle practices. As a physiotherapist, I examine the mechanics involved in muscle, joints, and metabolism. I also act as a fitness and recovery coach, aligning my patients’ lifestyle with their desired aims. Small changes in people’s movement, stress, and eating habits have proven effective, and the holiday seasons make this even easier.

1. Keep Your Body Moving

Light exercises help maintain comfortable joints and stable energy.

I teach patients to do simple warm-ups to increase synovial fluid (the liquid that keeps your joints smooth) and to boost muscle oxygen.

A brief walk before and after consuming large meals enables the body to utilize the nutrients rather than store them.

2. Build Your Plate Around Protein

Protein has an appetite-suppressing effect and safeguards lean tissue.

Turkey, eggs, beans, and/or yogurt work to regulate hunger and metabolism.

This is a thing I’ve told almost all my clients, and it applies in all cases where you need a successful diet and training regime. 

3. Apply the 80/20 Rule

Mainly, your diet all day long can include healthy foods.

Roughly 20% can include the fun holiday treats like pie, stuffing, and other treats.

There’s no guilt involved. Just balance. I use this approach with my athletic clients and my non-athletic clients because it’s effective.

4. Listen to Your Body Signals

Eat slowly.

Your body also offers you interoceptive signals, indicating when you’re full.

These signals become easier to detect when eating slowly.

5. Boost Your NEAT

NEAT is the acronym for “non-exercise activity thermogenesis,” referring to the calories that are expended during [unintentional exercise]

Small things help too, like walking the dog, assisting with clean-up, stretching, and standing up.

6. Prioritize Recovery 

Good sleeping habits regulate the hormones, called leptin and ghrelin, that control the sensation of hunger. 

Reducing stress helps prevent overeating due to emotions. . 

7. Keep in Mind That One Meal Doesn’t Change Everything 

Individuals experience excessive worries over one holiday meal. 

All the better progress you make, all the better you will become. 

Enjoy the food. Enjoy the time with your family. Get back on your routine the next day.

Alex Lee, Co-Founder, Physiotherapist and Fitness & Recovery Expert, Saunny

Master Damage Control with Strategic Time Management

The top tip I give for navigating the holidays and avoiding guilt is to completely abandon the idea of “perfect performance” and focus only on “operational damage control.” The chaos is inevitable, but your system must be resilient enough to handle the inevitable input shock without breaking the whole process.

My strategy is the 90/10 Rule applied to time, not food. You have to accept that your meals will be messy and non-compliant for a few days. The operational mandate is to ensure that 90% of your available time—all the hours outside of the actual holiday meals—is dedicated to strict compliance: getting your sleep, controlling liquid calories, and hitting your mandatory movement targets.

This works because it changes the focus from guilt over eating to competence in execution. You enjoy the meal without anxiety because you know your system is working flawlessly the rest of the time. It proves that resilience isn’t found in avoiding the problem; it’s found in designing a process strong enough to absorb the problem without compromising the overall mission.

Flavia Estrada, Business Owner, Co-Wear LLC

Shift Focus from Food to Family Connections

Look, the holidays can bring up a lot of food guilt. I’ve seen it. The trick is to notice why you feel that way and tell that all-or-nothing voice in your head to take a hike. One big meal doesn’t erase your progress. At Interactive Counselling, we work on shifting focus to the people around the table, not just the food on it. That’s what makes the season feel less stressful and more like a holiday.

Amy Mosset, CEO, Interactive Counselling

Use The Plate Method to Balance Holiday Meals

I tell my clients to focus on the ‘plate method’ during holiday meals – fill half your plate with vegetables, a quarter with lean protein, and a quarter with your favorite holiday treats. This way, you’re nourishing your body first while still enjoying what makes the holidays special. I learned this from my own journey with emotional eating in my twenties – when I stopped labeling foods as ‘good’ or ‘bad’ and started thinking about balance, everything changed for me.

Livia Esterhazy, Owner, The Thrive Collective

Start with Protein to Control Holiday Cravings

As a family health physician, I tell patients that holidays don’t slow progress; a lack of strategy does. I suggest a PROTEIN-FIRST PLATE approach: Begin meals with lean proteins like turkey, chicken, fish or plant sources for vegans and vegetarians to help increase fullness and decrease calorie consumption by 15-20%.

It’s also great to incorporate high-fiber side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or salads, for more fullness. I also advocate for small, realistic habits rather than restrictions. A small amount of protein, such as Greek yogurt or a hard-boiled egg, is recommended before Thanksgiving dinner, so you don’t arrive “starving” and kind of indulge in everything you see on the table. That both crushes cravings and allows you to enjoy holiday food without overeating.

Dr. Geny Augustine, Family Medicine Physician, Solace Health

Aim for Maintenance Over Holiday Season Perfection

When my clients ask about holiday weight loss, I tell them the goal is maintenance, not perfection. Most people only gain about a pound over the season, but they keep it.

My first rule is: don’t save up all day. That just makes you arrive starving and more likely to binge.

Second rule: build your plate like a workout warm-up with protein and veggies, then add the fun foods.

Third, decide what’s worth it before you walk in. Enjoy your grandma’s pie, skip the stuff you don’t really love, and move on without guilt.

Dong Wang, Founder, Vanswe Fitness

Think in Weeks Not Days for Results

In the gym, we talk about consistency, not punishment. The same applies at Thanksgiving. One big meal won’t ruin your progress; staying “off” for six weeks will.

I ask people to think in weeks, not days. If most days look solid, you can relax at the table and still move toward your goals.

My simple holiday rules:

Lifting or walking the morning of significant events helps mood and appetite.

One plate, sit down, slow bites.

Go straight back to your routine at the next meal, no make-up punishment workouts.

Ryan Beattie, Director of Business Development, UK SARMs

Maintain Weight and Enjoy the Holiday Season

While it might be popular to try and lose weight around the holidays in order to fit into a special outfit, etc., it’s more realistic to focus on maintaining our weight during the holiday season. With that shift in mindset we can better enjoy the holiday season. 

The number one thing I tell folks around the holidays is to remember that the holiday itself, or a specific event, is just one day. And it’s what we do most of the time vs some of the time that makes the biggest difference. On the day of the holiday or event, make sure to have a balanced breakfast and mid-day meal (if the event is in the evening) that includes lean protein, high fiber carbohydrates and colorful fruits and veggies. 

These foods will keep your energy balanced and appetite satiated throughout the day. When it comes time for the holiday meal or event, take a mindful approach to filling your plate. Observe the offerings first, by sight, smell (even sound depending what’s being served!), before filling your plate. 

Serve yourself with intention and know that you can always refill your plate again if you’re truly hungry. Finally, allow yourself to experience the joy of the holidays, as stressing about what you are eating can be more problematic than eating the food itself!

Andrea Rumschlag, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist & Nutrition Coach, Rise & Reign Nutrition

Practice Moderation and Prioritize Regular Exercise Daily

It is entirely possible to navigate the holiday season without derailing your health and weight goals. Moderation is key. For instance, if you know you will be enjoying a luscious dinner meal and want to really enjoy it, eat lightly for the remainder of the day while also drinking a lot of water. The other key is exercise [is] specifically making time for it. While it’s tempting to skip workouts when there’s so much merriment to be had, it’s better for your body if you don’t.

Thank you so much for your consideration. If you quote me, please credit me as “food writer and cookbook author Sarah Walker Caron, who blogs at SarahsCucinaBella.com.

Sarah Walker Caron, Food Writer and Cookbook Author, Sarah’s Cucina Bella

Embrace Mindful Eating to Eliminate Food Guilt

Eating mindfully is perhaps the most consistent way to eat and enjoy holiday food and still support your goal of losing weight. Rather than attempting to limit what you can eat or try to skip your favourite traditional foods, the mindful approach will help you appreciate your time at the table. As you slow down, as you notice the flavour, as you take time to appreciate each bite, you will naturally eat less without feeling like you are being deprived.

A final benefit of mindful eating is that it gets rid of the “good” food versus “bad” food mentality. When no foods are “off-limits,” people are less likely to go back and forth between strict control and overeating. The ability to savour and enjoy all of your holiday dishes with mindfulness allows you to eliminate the guilt associated with enjoying your holiday food, which also lends itself to developing healthy long-term eating habits.

Ultimately, the holiday season is about enjoyment, and mindful eating helps you find that balance. Mindful eating permits you to enjoy the traditions of the holiday season while still aligning with your goals. Mindful eating creates a positive experience around the holiday table, rather than creating an opportunity to correct yourself or compensate later.

Blen Tesfu, MD, Welzo

Holidays Don’t Have to Derail Progress

The message is clear: the holidays don’t have to derail your progress. Whether you call it the 80/20 rule, damage control, or simply focusing on consistency over perfection, the strategy is the same. One meal, or even one day, won’t undo your hard work. What matters is what you do most of the time, not some of the time.

So this holiday season, enjoy your mom’s peanut butter chocolate candy, savor that slice of pie, and embrace the time with family and friends. Just make sure you’re also honoring your commitment to yourself by staying active, eating mindfully, and getting right back to your routine the next day. 

Wake up on Thanksgiving morning and get that workout in. Take a family walk after dinner. Build your plate with intention, starting with protein and vegetables before adding the treats you really want.

Most importantly, let go of the guilt. The holidays are about joy, gratitude, and connection. When you approach them with balance rather than restriction, you’ll discover that you can have it all: the celebration, the progress, and the peace of mind that comes from staying true to your goals.

Now get out there and move your body. You’ve got this.

Sitting Equals Dying: From Couch to Habit in 21 Days

Sitting Equals Dying - From Couch to Habit in 21 Days Rhonda Goode Header

Build a fitness habit in 21 days. Practical dos and don’ts for starting your fitness life, breaking plateaus, and making the gym feel like peace.

If Exercise Feels Like Punishment, You’re in the Wrong Place

Listen to the episode here…

The Science of 21 Days

Want to know the secret to making fitness stick? Do it for 21 days straight. That’s it. That’s the magic number.

It’s just science.

If you do anything for 21 days, it becomes a habit.

There are entire books about it. After those three weeks, your body and mind expect it.

It becomes part of your routine instead of something you have to force yourself to do.

So Rhonda Goode’s challenge is simple: try working out for 21 days in a row and see if you stop. Chances are, you won’t want to.

When You Hit a Plateau (And You Will)

Your body gets used to everything you do when you work out. At some point, you’re going to stop seeing results. It happens to everyone.

So what do you do about it?

Switch Your Workout Time

This is the best thing you can do, but also the hardest. Working out at a different time of day can shock your system into responding again.

The problem? People get stuck in their routines. Especially retired people who have their coffee at exactly 7:45 every morning.

Rhonda admits she’s the same way. She does NOT like her routine messed with.

But sometimes breaking that routine is exactly what your body needs.

Try Different Activities

Instead of going to the gym every single time, take a hike. Do something difficult outside that you would never do otherwise. The change in activity can restart your progress.

Your body doesn’t know the difference between a tough hike and your regular workout. It just knows you’re doing something different.

Change Your Eating Schedule

This sounds crazy, but it works. If you’re always carb-heavy at lunch, switch it to dinner.

If you always eat a salad at lunch, try having it at night instead.

When you switch up what your body is used to, whether that’s food or working out, you’ll often drop weight. Not always, but a lot of times. It’s weird, but it’s true.

The Cheat Meal Strategy (That Rhonda Doesn’t Use)

Some people who’ve been working out forever swear by having a cheat meal on the weekend where they eat complete garbage. And you know what? They often notice they drop weight after.

Rhonda doesn’t do this because she doesn’t enjoy it. But she admits it works for some people.

Any kind of change that switches up what your body is used to can trigger weight loss.

Remember: You’re Going to Fluctuate

Everybody’s weight fluctuates. That’s normal. Don’t freak out about it.

Real Talk About Starting from Zero

So you’re overweight. You have health issues. You’re intimidated. Maybe you haven’t worked out in years. Or ever. What’s step one?

Just Go to the Gym

This sounds really intimidating, but here’s the truth: unless you’re going to one of those hardcore muscle gyms, most gyms are filled with pretty average-looking folks.

You’re not walking into a room full of Instagram models. You’re walking into a room with regular people who are working on themselves.

When you walk in, people around you are going to introduce themselves. They’ll tell you what equipment you need if the instructor isn’t there yet. They’ll say, “Just do what you can.”

And that’s the truth. Whatever you do when you start is better than sitting on the couch at home.

It Has to Be for You

This is critical. You have to be determined that you’re doing this for YOU. Not for your spouse. Not for your kids. Not because your doctor told you to.

When you’re doing it for someone else, it doesn’t work. Period.

Rhonda’s Three Non-Negotiable DO’s

1. Go to the Gym in Comfortable Clothes

Wear clothes you’re comfortable sweating in. Comfortable moving in. That’s it.

Don’t worry about what you look like. Nobody’s there to look cute. People are there to work.

And don’t worry about what you look like in the mirror. If you’re in a class, no one’s looking at you but you. Everyone else is looking at the instructor.

You’re not the focus. You may think you’re the focus, especially if you’re new, but you’re really not.

2. Take Water and Be Prepared to Sweat

Some people naturally don’t sweat. Rhonda thinks those people are weird and is kind of envious of them. But most people are going to sweat.

Bring water. You don’t want to get dehydrated and lightheaded while you’re working out. It happens, especially to people just starting who’ve never done this before.

3. Focus on the Small Things You Can Change First

Everyone has a really bad habit. Or several. What’s yours?

  • Nachos every night in the toaster oven?
  • Bowl of ice cream before bed?
  • Mountain Dew all day?
  • Fast food for lunch every day?

Start there. Don’t try to overhaul your entire diet at once.

Rhonda once talked to someone who was pre-diabetic and in their 30s. They were coming to the gym but not seeing results. When asked about their habits, they admitted to having nachos every night.

Rhonda’s advice? Maybe try nachos three times a week instead of seven. Pick your days. Drop it back slowly.

If you’re not willing to make any changes, you’re probably not going to see any results. You’ve got to make small steps.

Rhonda’s Three Non-Negotiable DON’Ts

1. Don’t Drink Your Calories

This is huge. Stop drinking regular soda. Stop drinking sweet tea by the gallon. Stop with the fancy coffee drinks that are basically milkshakes.

Rhonda used to drink Mountain Dew. A lot of it. She gave it up completely. That one change made a massive difference.

If you must have soda, switch to diet. Yes, it’s still not great for you. But it’s better than drinking 200+ calories every time you’re thirsty.

2. Don’t Eat Fast Food Every Day

You don’t have to never eat fast food again. But you can’t have it every single day and expect to see results.

If you’re eating fast food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, that’s a problem. Pick one meal to eat at home. Start there.

3. Don’t Make Excuses

The biggest don’t of all? Don’t make excuses.

  • “I’ll start in January.”
  • “I don’t have time.”
  • “The gym is too expensive.”
  • “I’m too tired.”
  • “I have bad knees.”

These are all excuses. And Rhonda has ZERO patience for them.

What About Bad Knees and Joint Issues?

Rhonda hears this all the time. “I have bad knees, so I can’t work out.”

Her response? No. You can still work out. You just have to modify.

Can’t do jumping jacks? Fine.

Do something else.

There are always modifications.

The problem isn’t your knees.

The problem is using your knees as an excuse not to try at all.

The Gym Doesn’t Have to Be Expensive

People say the gym is just another expense, especially now with everything costing more. And yes, it is an expense.

But most people can find that money in their budget by giving up something. Maybe it’s not Starbucks. Maybe it’s cutting back on fast food or subscription services you don’t use.

Gyms don’t have to be expensive. The YMCA has financial aid assistance. Planet Fitness is $10 a month. You can find options.

And it’s definitely not about the prettiest facility or the newest equipment. Some CrossFit places charge $120-$150 a month, which Rhonda thinks is insane.

Try Before You Commit

Get a day pass. Try some places out. Walk in and see if it’s your thing. If it’s not, you haven’t signed a contract or joined a membership you have to cancel.

Most people find that group fitness is far more satisfying than trying to do things alone. There’s something about working out with others that keeps you accountable and motivated.

Sitting Is Slowly Killing You

Here’s the hard truth: sitting equals dying.

If you’re sitting all the time and not using your body, eventually you’re not going to be able to use it. It doesn’t matter what age you are. Use it or lose it is real.

Your body is designed to move. When you don’t move it, things start shutting down. Muscles atrophy. Joints stiffen. Balance gets worse. Energy drops.

Then one day you can’t get up from a chair without help. You can’t walk from your bedroom to the car. You’ve become a prisoner in your own body.

The Mindset Shift: From Punishment to Peace

For someone who sees exercise as punishment or a chore, how do you shift to seeing it as peace?

Rhonda’s answer is brutally simple: you’re in the wrong place.

If exercise isn’t fun, you’re doing it wrong. Period.

Now, it’s not always fun during the actual process. Sometimes you’re sweating and struggling and wondering why you thought this was a good idea.

But if it’s a chore and you’re not having fun? If you dread it every time? You’re in the wrong place.

The Gym Should Feel Like Church

The gym should feel like the place where you come in and have the most peace. You’re focusing on you. You’re working on yourself. And you’re having fun because of the people around you.

Even people you don’t necessarily love become part of your gym family because you all have the same goal.

If you’re not getting any enjoyment out of what you’re doing, then you’re doing the wrong thing or you’re at the wrong place. Find another group. Find another activity.

Life’s too short to force yourself to do a workout you hate. There are too many options out there.

Parting Wisdom from Rhonda

Start. Just start doing something.

If you don’t know where to start, talk to someone. Ask around. Find someone who can point you in the right direction.

Most people can find the money for a gym membership by giving up something else. And gyms don’t have to be expensive.

Get a day pass. Try places out. See what feels right.

And remember: for most people, group fitness is way more satisfying than trying to go it alone.

Action Items to Get Started Today

  1. Commit to 21 days straight. Pick a start date and do something active for 21 days in a row. Make it a habit.
  2. Identify your worst food habit. What’s your thing? Start working on that one thing first.
  3. Stop drinking your calories immediately. This is the easiest change to make with the biggest impact.
  4. Get a day pass to a local gym. Don’t commit to anything yet. Just walk in and see how it feels.
  5. Try a group fitness class. Even if it terrifies you. Most people find this more motivating than working out alone.
  6. Stop making excuses. Write down your top three excuses and then challenge each one. Are they real obstacles or just fears?
  7. Find your community. Look for people who have similar goals and will hold you accountable.
  8. Remember: you’re choosing your future. Every day you sit is a day you’re not investing in your later years.

When Exercise Becomes Peace

Rhonda’s students have fun in her classes. They laugh. They chat. They support each other. They show up even after 12-hour shifts because they know they’ll feel better after.

That’s what fitness should be. Not punishment. Not a chore you have to force yourself through. But a place of peace. A place where you focus on yourself. A place where you’re building your future one workout at a time.

Key Takeaways

  • 21 days is all it takes to build a habit
  • Plateaus are normal; switch things up to break through
  • Starting is for you and no one else
  • Wear comfortable clothes and bring water
  • Focus on small changes first, especially with food
  • Stop drinking calories, eating daily fast food, and making excuses
  • The gym doesn’t have to be expensive
  • Group fitness beats solo workouts for most people
  • Sitting all the time will eventually make you unable to move
  • If exercise feels like punishment, you’re in the wrong place
  • The gym should feel like church – a place of peace and community

One Final Word

If you’ve been sitting on the couch thinking “I should probably start moving more,” this is your sign.

You don’t need expensive equipment. You don’t need to look a certain way. You don’t need a perfect diet plan.

You just need to start. Get a day pass. Try some places. Find where you feel comfortable.

Give it 21 days. Build the habit. Find your people. Focus on small changes.

And remember: sitting equals dying. Moving equals living.

Which one are you going to choose?


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A Prisoner in Her Own Body: Why I’ll Never Stop Moving

A Prisoner in Her Own Body Rhonda Goode Header

Watching her mother become a prisoner in her own body changed everything. Why Rhonda built a fitness army and will never stop moving.

The Last Two Years: Why Watching Her Mother’s Decline Fuels Every Workout

Listen to the episode here…

The Image That Haunts Her

Rhonda Goode’s mother spent the last two years of her life unable to walk from her chair to the car. The car was parked right at the bottom of the steps. Just three or four steps away. Through one small room.

She couldn’t do it.

She became a prisoner in her own body. And then a prisoner in her own home.

What “Housebound” Really Means

For almost two years, Rhonda’s mother couldn’t leave the house at all. Not for doctor’s appointments. Not for family gatherings. Not for anything. She eventually couldn’t even make it to the bathroom, so they had to set up a porta potty inside the house.

At the end, there were bed sores from sitting all the time. She dislocated her shoulder trying to clean herself after using the bathroom. Her stomach was so large it would almost touch the floor when she sat in her recliner. She had no stomach muscles left at all.

She needed a lift chair just to stand up.

Drugged Out on Medication

Between all the medications for all her ailments, Rhonda’s mother was often out of it. Sometimes Rhonda would bring her food and couldn’t even get her awake enough to eat. Her blood sugar would drop so low that she was completely unresponsive.

One time it was 54. Rhonda had to call EMS because she couldn’t get her mother to even acknowledge she was there.

Rhonda explains this is what happens when you try to manage everything with medication instead of addressing the root causes.

First comes the high blood pressure medication. Then the diabetes pills. Then the insulin. Then more insulin. Then all the side effects from all the medications.

It compounds until you’re drugged out of your mind.

Living Longer But Not Better

Here’s the thing that shocked Rhonda. Her mother lived longer than most of her family.

Her father died at 69. Her uncle at 65. Almost all her mother’s cousins died younger.

Her mother was the weakest of all of them health-wise. But she was also the most stubborn.

That stubborn streak probably kept her alive. But alive doesn’t mean living.

The Last Six Months

The final six months brought mental decline on top of everything else. Her mother’s mind started to go.

But before that? Her mind was mostly okay.

She was mentally aware enough to know she was trapped. She knew she couldn’t leave. She knew she couldn’t do anything.

Can you imagine being mentally present but completely unable to control your own body? Unable to make choices about your own life?

We all have days where we don’t want to leave the house. But to not have the choice at all? That’s a different story.

Why This Drives Everything Rhonda Does

Dying doesn’t scare Rhonda. She’s made peace with that.

What terrifies her is living like her mother did.

Being dependent on others for everything. Having your entire life built around medications. Feeling terrible all the time. Having no energy. Being physically incapable of doing basic tasks.

This is why she’ll never stop moving. Never stop working out. Never stop showing up for herself.

She’s seen exactly what happens when you don’t.

From Working Out for Herself to Teaching Others

Rhonda didn’t set out to become a fitness instructor. She started working out just for herself. But a few years after she began her fitness journey, people started asking her to teach classes.

At first, she said no. Teaching wasn’t her thing. But people kept asking. They wanted what she had. They wanted her energy, her no-nonsense approach, her consistency.

Finally, she said yes.

Building a Fitness Army

Now Rhonda teaches classes where people show up like it’s church. They come even after working 12-hour shifts. Some do two to three hours with her in a row. They choose her over the new, pretty gym in town.

Why? Because they know she’ll be there. No matter what. If they’re working split shifts or switching schedules, they can count on Rhonda showing up.

And here’s what she tells them: you’ll feel better if you show up. Even if you’re exhausted. Even if you think you can’t do it. You’ll still usually feel better after.

The Community That Forms

When people spend time working out together, they become interested in each other’s lives. Accountability builds naturally. If you’re always there and then you’re suddenly gone for three days, people notice.

They check in. Where are you? Is something wrong?

That’s the community Rhonda has built. They’ve watched each other go through really bad stuff. Life happens to everyone. Deaths, divorces, diagnoses, job losses. The fitness community becomes a support system.

People don’t just want to belong. They want commonality. They want to be around others who understand. Who have the same goal. Who know we’re all going to get old.

Age Ain’t Nothin But a Number

Rhonda has a mantra she shares with everyone: No matter what age you walk in the room, there’s somebody in that room who’s 15 years older than you.

Look at them. Look at the shape they’re in. Now think about where you are. If you’re 25 and you see someone at 40. If you’re 40 and you see someone at 70.

How do you want to live when you’re their age?

One of Rhonda’s students, Marilyn, is almost 72. She can lift 20-pound weights.

Genetics play a role, sure. But a lot of it is choosing your own future.

The People Who Changed Their Lives

Some of Rhonda’s students have gotten off blood pressure medication. Others have gotten off diabetes medication. They’ve reversed what they thought was inevitable. They’ve told their pharmacy to suck it.

That’s what keeps Rhonda teaching. Seeing real health improvements. Watching people take back control. Knowing they’re choosing a different path than what their genetics suggested.

The Holidays Shouldn’t Sabotage Your Fitness

When the holidays roll around and people worry about weight gain, Rhonda has a surprisingly balanced take.

Once you stop being addicted to food, once you stop looking at food as a crutch for every emotion, the holidays aren’t as big of a deal. You no longer approach parties and family gatherings like a cow at a trough.

You can have a bite of this. You can enjoy your favorite things. But here’s the key: don’t eat it if you don’t like it. Just because it’s there doesn’t mean you have to eat it. Just because Aunt Sue made it doesn’t mean you’re obligated to eat it.

And if you take a bite of something and it’s not as good as it looked? Throw it away. Don’t finish it out of obligation.

Focus on what you really like. Have some of that. But don’t take a bite of everything just because it’s in front of you.

It’s Okay to Gain a Few Pounds (But…)

Here’s Rhonda’s honest take on holiday weight: it’s okay to gain 3 or 4 pounds during Thanksgiving and Christmas. Really. It’s okay.

But here’s the deal. If you’re at the gym the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, you better be there the Friday after. That weight will come back off. You just have to stay consistent.

The problem isn’t enjoying holiday meals. The problem is when people use the holidays as an excuse to quit entirely. “I’ll start in January” becomes the lie they tell themselves.

When You Have Multiple Family Gatherings

Rhonda remembers when she was newly married and all her grandparents were alive. Six meals between Thanksgiving and Christmas. You had to go to everyone’s house because everyone cooked and everyone would be offended if you didn’t show up.

For Thanksgiving, sometimes they’d split it between Thursday and Friday. For Christmas, they always split between Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Six big meals. No way around it.

If you’re in that situation with big families and multiple gatherings, you have to make choices. You can’t eat like it’s the last supper at every single one. Pick your favorites. Enjoy them. But be strategic.

Action Items for Your Fitness Life

  1. Ask yourself the hard question: Do you want to be a prisoner in your own body later? If not, what are you doing about it now?
  2. Find your fitness community. Working out alone is hard. Group fitness provides accountability and support.
  3. Show up even when you’re tired. You’ll almost always feel better after. Your fitness community needs you just like you need them.
  4. Look at people older than you who are fit. That can be your future if you choose it.
  5. Break your food addiction. Stop using food to deal with every emotion. Happy, sad, stressed, bored – food doesn’t need to be the answer.
  6. During holidays, eat what you love. Don’t eat out of obligation. Don’t finish things that aren’t delicious. Don’t eat everything just because it’s there.
  7. Stay consistent through the holidays. A few pounds of holiday weight is fine if you get right back to your routine.
  8. Choose your future. Every single day, you’re making choices about what your later years will look like.

Find Your Motivation – Let it Fuel Your Workouts

Watching someone you love decline like Rhonda watched her mother is brutal. But it crystallized something for her. She knows exactly what she doesn’t want. She’s seen it up close for two years.

Being a prisoner in your own body is worse than dying. Having no choices. Depending on others for everything. Being mentally aware but physically incapable. That’s the nightmare.

So Rhonda shows up. Every single day. Not just for herself anymore, but for her fitness army who needs her. Who counts on her. Who’s choosing a different future.

Key Takeaways

  • Being housebound and dependent is a real possibility if you don’t take care of yourself
  • Medication can manage symptoms but doesn’t solve the root problem
  • Finding a fitness community creates natural accountability
  • People will show up even when exhausted if they know you’ll be there
  • Breaking food addiction changes how you approach holidays and gatherings
  • Small holiday weight gain is fine if you stay consistent
  • You’re choosing your future health with every decision you make today
  • Group fitness is more effective than going it alone

Rhonda’s mother’s story is heartbreaking. But it’s also a powerful reminder. Every day you move, you’re investing in your future freedom. Every day you show up, you’re choosing independence over dependence.

That’s why Rhonda will never stop moving. And why she’s building an army of people who won’t either.


🙌The More Movement Please Podcast is supported by affiliate partnerships. Please check out a few of our partners below:

– Get my lavalier microphones: https://amzn.to/3WXK0Sa

– Start a podcast today here: https://rss.com/?via=moremovementplease

– Create content from your own voice with Castmagic’s Suite of AI Tools: https://get.castmagic.io/dcjy15cirnts

– Want to help support our show? Buy a girl a drink perhaps? https://ko-fi.com/famousashleygrant

– Need content for your podcast or blog? Check out Tools for Motivation!

The links above are affiliate links. This means my podcast will receive a small commission if you order through any of them at no additional cost to you. Affiliate commissions are one of the ways my podcast makes money so that I can create episodes free of charge. If you do purchase anything from my links, I sincerely would like to thank you for your support!

From Food Coma Family Reunions to Fitness Warrior: Breaking the Family Curse

Food Coma to Fitness Warrior - Rhonda Goode Header

Learn how Rhonda lost 120 pounds and broke her family’s cycle of diabetes and obesity. Real talk about food addiction and choosing your future.

Food Addiction, Bad Genes, and the Decision That Changed Everything

Listen to the episode here…

The Wake-Up Call at 35

Rhonda Goode walked into a gym on March 31, 2011. She was 35 years old, working a desk job, and felt horrible. But more than that, she was scared of following the path that laid before her.

She had watched her entire family struggle with diabetes and high blood pressure.

Both sides of her family.

Every single one of her mother’s cousins had been diagnosed in their 30s and 40s. First came the high blood pressure. Then diabetes. Then the insulin. Then more insulin. Then the decline.

She refused to follow that path.

A Co-Worker Sparked the Change (But Didn’t Stick Around)

A co-worker convinced Rhonda to join the gym. That friend lasted about four weeks before quitting. But Rhonda kept showing up. Even when nothing looked different physically, she noticed something important. She felt better mentally when she was there.

So she kept going. When she couldn’t sleep at 2am, she’d head to her 24-hour gym and walk on the treadmill. She made a decision that changed everything: she would do this for nobody but herself.

The Driving Force Behind the Change

Rhonda is blunt about her motivation. “I was really determined not to be my mother,” she says. She tells everyone that your driving force usually won’t be your partner or best friend. It has to come from within you.

For her, it was simple math. She was probably going to be here on this earth for a while. The only question was: what condition would she be in?

The Family Pattern She Refused to Continue

Picture this: family reunions where everyone piles their plates as high as they can. The men especially, competing with their fathers to see who can eat more. Going back for seconds, thirds, fourths.

Rhonda has a photo from one of these reunions with her mother. She was 23 years old. Both of them look drugged out, eyes glazed over. They were in a complete food coma. And she was huge.

The scary part? This was normal in her family.

Both Sides Had the Same Story

On her mother’s side: diabetes and high blood pressure across the entire generation. On her father’s side: the exact same thing. Her paternal grandmother lost half a leg to diabetes before dying from cancer. Her father died from cancer but had diabetes the entire time.

Here’s what Rhonda realized. Dying didn’t scare her. Living like that did.

Living where everything is built around the medicines you take. Feeling like garbage all the time. Having no energy. Not being physically active. It compounds on itself. You don’t feel well, so you don’t move. You don’t move, so you don’t feel well. Years go by. You get comfortable in it.

The Reality of Being an Only Child

Rhonda is an only child with no children by choice.

That meant one thing: there’s no one to take care of me.

She needed to do something before it was too late. And she knew it could get too late.

120 Pounds Lost, Five Dress Sizes Down

By 2020, Rhonda had lost 120 pounds and five dress sizes. But the transformation wasn’t just physical.

She started by making movement a habit. That part was actually easier than she expected. Once it became routine, showing up wasn’t the hard part. The hard part? Changing what she ate.

The Food Addiction Not Enough Folks Talk About

Sugar is a drug. Studies show it has some of the same effects as cocaine. And Rhonda was addicted to food, just like most of her family.

She had to address the hard truths: food addiction, family dynamics, unhealthy habits that felt normal. She had to break free from using food as a crutch for every emotion.

Simple Changes That Made the Difference

Rhonda always cooked, but she cooked simple meals. She still does. The changes she made were straightforward but not easy:

  • She gave up Mountain Dew completely
  • She cut back on fast food
  • She started paying attention to what she was actually eating
  • She started moving more

The key? Small steps. Not perfection.

The Daily Chocolate and Carbs Philosophy

Here’s where Rhonda breaks the mold. She eats chocolate every day. She eats carbs every day. She doesn’t endorse cutting out entire food groups or happy foods.

Her approach? Balance and management.

Pasta is her favorite food. She could live on it. But now instead of eating 600-calorie bags of pasta for lunch AND having pasta sides at dinner, she makes choices.

If she’s having pasta for dinner, she’ll have a salad for lunch. If she’s having a baked potato with her salad, she’ll skip the pasta that night.

The Salad Requirements (Yes, Really)

Rhonda eats the same salad every single day for lunch. And she has very specific requirements:

  • Must be a spring mix, preferably 50/50 blend
  • Needs spinach, but also colorful lettuce
  • Cannot be wet (it won’t last the week)
  • Absolutely NO iceberg lettuce (she calls it a cardinal sin)
  • Cherry or cherub tomatoes (ruby reds are best)
  • Cucumbers
  • Sugar snap peas
  • Feta cheese
  • Croutons (but only the fat, puffy, Texas Roadhouse-style ones in garlic butter)
  • Ranch dressing (but not drowning the salad)

She stands in the grocery store examining the plastic bins to make sure the lettuce is colorful enough and not too wet. If it’s not right, she buys multiple containers to mix them.

When people ask how she can eat the same thing every day, she points out that people eat the same burgers and fried chicken from different fast food places without thinking twice about it.

Breaking the “Food Coma” Cycle

A photo of her and her mother in a food coma represents everything Rhonda fought against. It wasn’t just about weight. It was about breaking a generational pattern of:

  • Using food as entertainment
  • Eating to the point of being drugged out
  • Competing to see who can consume the most
  • Accepting poor health as inevitable
  • Letting medication manage everything instead of addressing the root cause

Action Items You Can Start Today

  1. Look at your family health history honestly. What patterns do you see? What trajectory are you on?
  2. Find your real motivation. It can’t be for someone else. It has to be about the quality of life YOU want.
  3. Start moving, even if it’s just walking. The physical activity habit is actually the easier part to build.
  4. Identify your food addiction. What’s your thing? Soda? Fast food? Late-night snacks? Everyone has something.
  5. Make small changes first. Don’t try to overhaul everything at once. Pick one bad habit and work on it.
  6. Stop using food as a drug. Pay attention to when you’re eating because you’re actually hungry versus eating for comfort, celebration, or boredom.
  7. Remember: you’re choosing your future. Every day you make decisions about what condition you’ll be in later.

You Can Change Your Life – Regardless of Genetics

Rhonda’s story isn’t about perfection. She eats chocolate every day. She has pasta regularly. She’s not following some restrictive diet plan.

What she did do was decide that she would not be a prisoner to her genetics. She would not follow the same path as her parents and grandparents. She would show up for herself, day after day, whether anyone else was there or not.

The gym became her non-negotiable. Not because she had to look a certain way. Not because someone was watching. But because she wanted to choose the condition she’d be in for the rest of her life.

That decision 14 years ago changed everything. Not just for her, but for the many people she now inspires and instructs in her fitness classes.

Key Takeaways

  • Your family health history doesn’t have to be your destiny
  • The motivation has to come from within you
  • Physical activity becomes easier once it’s a habit
  • Changing your diet is harder than starting to move
  • You can still eat foods you love and see results
  • Small, sustainable changes work better than extreme restrictions
  • Dying isn’t the scary part. Living in poor health is.

The generational curse? Rhonda broke it. And if she can do it, so can you.


🙌The More Movement Please Podcast is supported by affiliate partnerships. Please check out a few of our partners/partner offers below.

– Get my lavalier microphones: https://amzn.to/3WXK0Sa

– Start a podcast today here: https://rss.com/?via=moremovementplease

– Create content from your own voice with Castmagic’s Suite of AI Tools: https://get.castmagic.io/dcjy15cirnts

– Want to help support our show? Buy a girl a drink perhaps? https://ko-fi.com/famousashleygrant

– Need content for your podcast or blog? Check out Tools for Motivation!

The links above are affiliate links. This means my podcast will receive a small commission if you order through any of them at no additional cost to you. Affiliate commissions are one of the ways my podcast makes money so that I can create episodes free of charge. If you do purchase anything from my links, I sincerely would like to thank you for your support!

My Sister Just Launched Her Etsy Shop (And Her Sparkly Creations Are Stunning)

Celebrating the launch of my sister’s Etsy shop Header

Recently, my sister just opened her first Etsy shop.

No, this isn’t a sponsored post. I’m not getting paid to write this. I’m just want to help her get those first few sales. You know, the ones that make you feel like maybe, just maybe, this crazy dream of being an entrepreneur might actually work out!

When Sparkle Meets Passion

My sister has always had a thing for making ordinary objects extraordinary. Give her a plain pill bottle, and she’ll hand you back a rhinestone-covered masterpiece. Show her a basic resin tray, and suddenly it’s a glittering work of art that belongs on a vanity in a palace.

She’s been playing with resin and bedazzling items for a while now, turning everyday objects into something special. Something that makes you smile when you reach for it. Something that adds a little shine to the mundane parts of life.

And now she’s taken the leap. She opened HandcraftedbyRandT, her very first Etsy shop.

What She Actually Makes (And Why You’ll Want It)

Let me walk you through some of what you’ll find in her shop. These aren’t mass-produced items from some factory overseas. Each piece is handmade, bedazzled with care, and they’re perfect gifts for yourself or someone special.

Resin Trinket Trays That Belong on Your Instagram Feed

She makes trinket trays in round, square, and rectangular shapes. Each one is covered in rhinestones and glitter that catch the light beautifully. They’re perfect for corralling jewelry on your nightstand or keeping your rings safe by the kitchen sink.

I have one on my desk right now holding pens. Even my office supplies get to feel fancy.

Bedazzled Everything (Because Why Not?)

This is where she really shines. Pill bottles covered in rhinestones. Storage jars with flat tops and pointed tops, both bedazzled to perfection. Even hand sanitizer bottles get the sparkle treatment.

Who decided practical items had to be boring? Not my sister.

Celebrating the launch of my sister’s Etsy shop Items for sale

Friendship Bracelets and Beaded Jewelry

She also makes custom friendship bracelets where you choose the words and colors. Plus, there are beautiful beaded bracelets with toggle clasps in both shiny and matte finishes coming soon. Easy to put on, comfortable to wear, and they look expensive.

Why These Make Ridiculously Good Gifts

Here’s the thing about her creations. They work as gifts for pretty much gal in your life (or guy that likes sparkly things too!).

Your mom? She’ll love a bedazzled trinket jar for her bathroom.

Your coworker who has everything? A sparkly resin tray for her desk.

That person who’s impossible to shop for? A personalized friendship bracelet actually shows you put thought into it.

But honestly? These make the best gifts for yourself. You deserve pretty things too. You deserve to open your medicine cabinet and see something that sparkles. You deserve a bookmark that makes you excited to read.

The Scary Part About Starting Something New

Can I be real for a second? Starting an Etsy shop is terrifying.

My sister poured hours into creating these items. She learned how to work with resin (which is harder than it looks). She figured out the best way to seal rhinestones so they never fall off. She took photos, wrote descriptions, and set up her entire shop.

And now comes the hardest part. Waiting for someone, anyone, to click “add to cart.”

Those first sales matter so much. They’re proof that someone out there wants what you’re making. They’re validation that all those late nights were worth it. They give you the confidence to keep going.

How You Can Help (If You Want To)

I’m not going to pressure you. But if you’re looking for a gift for someone special, or if you just want to treat yourself to something sparkly, check out HandcraftedbyRandT.

Browse her collection. Save a few favorites. If something catches your eye, grab it.

Every single sale helps. Every review matters. Every favorite tells her that someone appreciates her work.

A Quick Look at What’s Available

Here’s what you’ll find in her shop right now:

Coming soon:

  • Personalized resin bookmarks with custom designs
  • Fashion beaded bracelets with toggle clasps

All of it sparkles. All of it is functional. All of it is made with care.

The Bottom Line

My sister is taking her first real steps as an entrepreneur. She’s putting her creativity out there for the world to see and potentially criticize. That takes guts.

She’s not asking for charity. She’s offering beautiful, functional items that happen to make daily life a little more magical. Items that make you smile when you use them.

If you need a gift, want to support a new small business, or just love sparkly things, visit HandcraftedbyRandT on Etsy.

And if you do buy something? Thank you. Seriously. You’re not just buying a trinket tray or a bookmark. You’re giving someone the courage to keep creating.


Again, this post is NOT sponsored. I’m not getting anything out of this except hopefully helping my sister make a few sales and feel like her new venture might actually succeed. Because I believe it will.

Shop Link: HandcraftedbyRandT on Etsy

I Otter Tell You About These Bracelets – Otter Spirit Bracelets Review

Otter Spirit Bracelet Review Header

When the mail fairy delivered a package from Otter Spirit last week, I was beyond excited. Inside were three stunning gemstone bracelets that I’ve been wearing pretty much nonstop ever since. Let me tell you all about them!

Disclosure: Otter Spirit kindly sent me these bracelets for the purposes of review, and I’m an Otter Spirit affiliate. That means if you use my link and coupon code below, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions are my own, and I genuinely love these bracelets.

What Makes Otter Spirit Special

Before I dive into the bracelets themselves, let me tell you why this company caught my attention in the first place.

Otter Spirit was born in 2020 following a magical encounter between the founders and wild sea otters in Monterey Bay, California. The company is committed to protecting these adorable creatures and donates $1 from every bracelet sold to ocean conservation organizations like the California Coastkeepers Alliance and the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

They work exclusively with natural AAA grade gemstones, and each bead is hand-selected to showcase the most vivid and vibrant colors. Every bracelet is handmade and features their signature stainless-steel otter medallion. Plus, they offer a 2-year no-questions-asked warranty, which is pretty amazing.

Unboxing Experience

Can we talk about the presentation for a second? Each bracelet arrived in its own magnetic closure box with a lovely message etched on it. Inside, I found:

  • The gemstone bracelet with the cute otter charm
  • A protective cloth bag to store it in
  • An information card explaining the intention of the bracelet, along with associated zodiac signs and chakras

This level of attention to detail makes these bracelets perfect for gifting (or treating yourself, because you deserve nice things).

The Three Bracelets I Received

Black Tourmaline Bracelet

This one has quickly become my go-to for protection. Black Tourmaline is known for shielding against negative energy, and I love wearing it when I need to feel grounded and protected. The deep black beads are polished and smooth, and they look sleek whether I’m wearing them alone or stacked with other bracelets.

Amethyst Bracelet

The purple hues on this bracelet are absolutely gorgeous. Amethyst is associated with calming energy and spiritual awareness. I know I’ll find myself reaching for this one when I need to center myself or when I’m feeling stressed. The color variations in each bead make this bracelet unique and eye-catching.

Rose Quartz Bracelet

This soft pink beauty is all about love and compassion. Rose Quartz is known as the stone of unconditional love, making it perfect for self-care days or when you need a gentle reminder to be kind to yourself. The pale pink color is subtle enough to wear with everything.

Quality and Comfort

All three bracelets are strung on stretchy elastic, making them easy to slip on and off. The tie points are cleverly hidden inside one of the beads, giving the bracelets a clean, polished look with no visible knots or extra cord hanging out.

The beads feel substantial and well-made. These aren’t flimsy pieces that will fall apart after a few wears. The weight of the natural gemstones gives them a quality feel, and that little otter medallion adds the perfect finishing touch.

How I Style Them

I’ve been having fun mixing and matching these bracelets. Some days I wear all three stacked together for a bohemian vibe. Other days I’ll wear just one as a simple accent. They pair well with both casual outfits and dressier looks.

The neutral colors of the Black Tourmaline, combined with the soft tones of the Amethyst and Rose Quartz, make these bracelets incredibly versatile.

And, anyone who knows me knows I’m obsessed with Blackpink…so needless to say I’m wearing the rose quartz and black tourmaline together the most because BLACKPINK IN YOUR AREA!

Why You Should Check Them Out

If you’re into gemstones, spiritual practices, or just love beautiful jewelry with meaning behind it, Otter Spirit is worth exploring. They have intention packs (like Confidence, Protection, Love, and more), zodiac packs for each astrological sign, and individual bracelets you can mix and match.

The fact that each purchase supports ocean conservation is the cherry on top. You get beautiful jewelry AND help protect sea otters. That’s a win-win in my book.

Get Your Own Otter Spirit Bracelets

Ready to add some gorgeous gemstone bracelets to your collection?

Shop here: Otter Spirit Bracelets

Use coupon code ASHLEYGRANT20 for 20% off your purchase!

Remember, every bracelet comes with free returns and a 2-year warranty, so there’s really no risk in trying them out.

Final Thoughts

I’m honestly so glad these bracelets came into my life. They’re beautiful, meaningful, and support a cause I care about. Whether you believe in the metaphysical properties of crystals or just appreciate quality jewelry, these bracelets deliver on all fronts.

Have you tried Otter Spirit bracelets? What gemstones are you drawn to? Drop a comment below and let me know!

Effective Social Media Strategies Driving Results in 2025

When I started freelance writing back in 2007, the internet felt like the wild west of marketing opportunities.

Then, I started ghostwriting for clients in 2014… Back then, a simple Facebook post could reach hundreds of people organically.

Instagram was still getting its footing online, and the idea of paying to “boost” a post? That felt like a waste of money because it was easier back then to get folks to pay attention to what you were sharing.

Fast forward to 2025, and I barely recognize the wild world of social media I once navigated with well…I won’t say ease – but with more ease than today.

As a content creator who’s written countless social media posts and articles for clients across a plethora of industries, I’ve watched organic reach plummet while AI-generated content floods every feed.

The platforms that once felt like friendly gathering spaces now operate more like slot machines. You pay to play, or your content disappears into the digital void.

But here’s what’s really keeping me up at night: even when my clients do invest in paid promotion, the results aren’t what they used to be. Attention spans have shrunk to mere seconds, and audiences have become incredibly savvy at spotting (and scrolling past) anything that feels remotely salesy or artificial.

So I did what any desperate content creator would do…I reached out to a bunch of folks in my network (or in this case Featured’s network, but hey – that still counts!), and asked them point-blank: “What’s actually working in social media for business owners in 2025?”

Their responses surprised me, gave me hope, and are perhaps shifting how I’m thinking about my social media strategy for myself and my clients.

While things have certainly changed, there are still ways to cut through the noise and create genuine connections with your audience.

Social Media Strategies Working Now

Here’s a quick list of the most common strategies experts shared with me that are working on social media right now:

1. Short-form educational videos (under 30-60 seconds, often unpolished, shot on phones)

2. Real human engagement (responding to comments with video replies, authentic conversations)

3. Behind-the-scenes content (raw, unedited glimpses of actual work processes)

4. Value-first education (solving problems before selling anything)

5. Private communities (Discord, WhatsApp groups, private Facebook groups with higher engagement)

6. Live interactions (real-time Q&As, live streams, immediate responses)

7. Personal branding over corporate (founders/owners as the face, not faceless brand accounts)

8. Customer-generated content (featuring real client testimonials, unedited messages)

9. Case studies with results (showing actual work, real numbers, measurable outcomes)

10. Building owned audiences (email lists, communities you control vs. rented social media space)

The overwhelming consensus: authentic, human-centered content that provides immediate value beats polished, AI-generated posts every time.

If you want to succeed online today, you’ve got to get back to basics and remember that behind every screen is a real human being craving authentic connection.

Now, let’s dive a little deeper into what everyone shared with me, shall we?

Beyond the Algorithm: Real Social Media Strategies That Drive Results in 2025

Feature Customers to Create Content Promotion Flywheel

Companies who are succeeding on social [media] are featuring their customers in their content, and giving their customers a reason to share that content with their networks. In other words, companies are turning their contacts into content creators and promoters. 

We see this flywheel often at Featured. More than 2,500+ publishers are using Featured to ask their contacts a question, and they then turn their insights into content – whether it be an article with attribution to their contact, or a customized social media post.

We’re seeing companies then publish that content, and letting their contacts know they’ve been featured. Naturally, people want to support great content and are often happy to share given that it positions them positively as a thought leader. 

Despite the AI-dominated landscape and increasing pay-to-play requirements on social platforms, we’re seeing remarkable results from featuring real, human-generated insights and tapping into real, human-curated networks.

Brett Farmiloe, CEO, Featured

Short Educational Reels Drive Direct Business Results

Making short-form educational reels is what is working best in our social strategy this year. They are effective because the viewer can get a value within seconds without needing context and the algorithm promotes those videos that people watch till the end.

I make them shorter than 30 seconds, I take them directly on my phone and I keep the format compact.

It starts with a short hook like “Here’s why your Google rankings keep dropping,” followed by a screen recording of an actual site audit, then I point out one overlooked technical issue and finish with a sentence on what to do next.

The reel that displayed the Core Web Vitals breakdown of a site based on the real screenshots in PageSpeed Insights received 18 direct messages within 3 days and resulted in two paying customers. 

That very same article posted on  LinkedIn got five likes and has even received no leads. I used to edit carousels and long form explainers for hours. But they barely moved anything. Now I record in less than five minutes, post with no captions beyond the title and it outperforms everything.

Sean Clancy, Digital Marketer & Managing Director, SEO Gold Coast

Real Relationships Beat AI Content in 2025

The biggest change I’ve noticed is the move to intimate, regular content especially through Stories, short videos (still popular), and private groups.

People want to see what goes on behind the scenes and hear from real people. Because there’s so much AI-made stuff online, what really stands out is content that’s not perfect but feels real: voiceovers, honest tutorials, daily updates, even quick complaints.

For my clients, what gets results is using organic content together with posts that get a small boost putting $5-$20 behind your best video or product. It helps get more views without costing too much. Also, working with others is great: doing joint live videos, letting someone take over your account for a day, or doing group giveaways brings in new viewers and gains trust from their followers.

Dr. Felix Lucian, Founder, Felix Happich Consultancy

Answer-Style Content Converts Viewers to Customers

This year, what is moving the needle for our marketing at PSS International Removals is answer-style content, especially on Facebook & LinkedIn.

With this, we take a question that has come up during phone calls or quote requests, then post a full response that addresses it directly.

One post that did very well was, “Why does shipping a few boxes cost more than you’d expect?” We broke down customs fees, fuel charges and minimum shipment rates, and posted it with a short video from our operations team.

It received more than 18,000 impressions organically and generated 247 clicks to the quote form, and saw 39 new bookings within ten days.

It was successful since we did not sell. It was successful since we were not trying to sell anything. We were addressing a pain point with clarity and honesty.  The style was accessible, the information was clear and the layout provided individuals with what they required and not hounding them with advertisements.

We post these once a week, mixing written content with simple videos shot from our smartphones by our actual team. They are always better than polished posts or generic promos since they present potential customers with valuable information even before they are ready to trust what we have to offer.

Hugh Dixon, Marketing Manager, PSS International Removals

Authentic Engagement Outperforms AI-Generated Noise

What always works, from my experience at Novoresume and beyond, is committed, constant, and genuine engagement. As AI churns out generic content, authentic human connection is a rarity. The strategy to shift from broadcasting to connecting is the only one that works anymore, and we’ve known this even before the advent of AI.

The playbook is simple, really. 

– Solve problems freely by sharing content that tackles real audience struggles, independent of product. So when we talk to our audience, we don’t put our resume templates and cover letter templates at the forefront of every conversation. We solve small, real issues that convert later.

– It’s important to be human and not a brand, an approach that’s more important now than ever. Using our personal voice and sharing opinions, experiences, and even struggles through thoughtful comments and posts is where we outshine corporate replies.

– Sparking real dialog provides real value. We do not hesitate to post bold takes that go against the flow. We don’t do this to garner short-term attention; we do it to spark long-term conversations that create impact. Generic content fades quickly, but strong perspectives drive continuous engagement.

What has always worked for us, and what we highly recommend to others, includes: 

– Myth-busting content that challenges norms, like debunking resume photo myths for our job-seeking community. This approach sparks discussions and establishes authority.

– Empathetic validation, where acknowledging struggles, like reframing the dialog around job search challenges to showcase resilience, helps forge deep connections that last.

– Generous engagement, where we do not calculate how much we put out there. We know every post matters, so we do not hold back when sharing content that we know is helping our audience. Even if it means not mentioning our products on social media for days on end.

Andrei Kurtuy, Co-founder & CMO, Novorésumé

Human-Touch Videos Boost Engagement Without Heavy Editing

Human-touch short-form video is continuing to work. Scrolling through AI-generated content is infinite, so when a viewer finally sees a real face unboxing a product, engraving a nameplate, or packaging an order, they stick around. Our videos are less than 30 seconds and are filmed with phone light. That simple style of content enabled a 40% boost in engagement on Instagram and TikTok over three months without much heavy editing or gimmicks.

The other is community-driven comments. We respond to all comments in a few hours and send people tags to new drops as long as they fit their previous purchases. In one quarter, that one habit drove repeat traffic on social to our site by nearly 20%, and that translated into $8,000 in incremental sales without any increase in ad spend.

Chris Bajda, eCommerce Entrepreneur & Managing Partner, GroomsDay

Real Human Perspective Cuts Through AI Slop

Authenticity. Real-life human perspective. Actual opinions, regardless of how they may make people feel.

Everyone’s drowning in AI slop – perfect grammar, zero personality, flawless formatting, and safe takes that say nothing. When you show up as an actual human with real experience and strong opinions, you’re gonna stand out.

People are starving for humanity in their feeds. They can smell AI content a mile away, and they’re gonna engage with humans who dare to be human.

Rodney Warner, CEO & Founder, Rodney Warner

Private Communities Create Deeper Customer Connections

The creation of private, engaged communities around our industry. Social media platforms such as Facebook Groups, Discord and LinkedIn give us a direct line to our loyal customers where we can provide value, answer questions and stay connected without using algorithms or spending money on advertising. The spaces allow us greater control and ability to develop deeper interaction with those people who really care about what we offer.

As an example, we established a closed LinkedIn group that allows businesses operating in construction and transportation to talk about equipment financing opportunities and how to do it right. We give exclusive information, advice on how to finance certain equipment, and allow group members to share their experience. The group has turned out to be a place where all can participate significantly as opposed to it being a sales presentation. In just three months, the group grew by 40% and members have become some of our most engaged leads.

This is much more effective than old school advertisements…

Cal Singh, Head Of Marketing & Partnerships, Equipment Finance Canada

Mix Smart AI With Human Voice

What actually works [for us] has been reduced to the reliability, sequencing and strategic use of AI without replacing the human voice, but has been improved…

Short videos (e.g., Tiktoks, Coils, Shorttube Shorts) are always attracting attention, especially in educational behind the scenes, or when they show real people solving real problems. Personal brands are getting great – famous, regularly appearing and talking to viewers immediately.

AI helps optimize content planning, reprotection, and even presentations, but human connections are transformed. Creating a community using DMS, comments and content based on Value creates constant subscribers to purchase. And yes, the cost of the game is real, but reasonable ads spend a warm audience, and repeated costs and continuity lead to solid profitability.

Faizan Khan, Public Relations and Content Marketing Specialist, Ubuy Singapore

Information-Rich Infographics Go Viral on Social

I have my website and I use blogs to gain traffic. I have noticed when I do inforgraphy, they work very well on social media. Some of my Infograph’s have gone viral. They need to be filled with information. 

Even with AI, people love sharing information done in a really nice graphic way. 

Monika Sangar, Bird Toy Maker, PDS parrot shop

Detailed Case Studies Generate Serious Client Inquiries

Posting detailed case studies with dollar savings or turnaround time worked exceptionally well for our business this year.

I presented a case study on a recent Level 2 task in Marrickville where we performed a full service upgrade within 48 hours and saved the client 720 dollars by rearranging some parts of the work in-house. I made the post plain, straightforward and number based, with two photographs and a one-paragraph description. That one post generated three new client inquiries in the first two days and has kept drawing profile visits weeks since.

Clients are paying attention to posts that clearly show outcomes they can easily understand…There is no need to dress it up or oversell it. The more direct the post, the more people engage and that engagement translates into serious enquiries from people who already understand the value of the service.

Daniel Vasilevski, Director/Owner, Pro Electrical

Simple Voiceover Tutorials Double Watch Time

Voiceover tutorials… I began recording simple screen captures that demonstrated to users how to compare the fees and rates of money transfers on our social media accounts, with my voice guiding the entire process.

There is no music, no graphics, only clear and fast walkthroughs.

The videos are now receiving twice as much watch time compared to our earlier face-to-camera clips. The tutorial that explains how to read a provider fee breakdown received 48 percent more clicks on our affiliate links in the first week than any of our branded animations we had posted over the previous twelve months.

The reason this is so effective is because people are tuning out polish. They seek someone who will walk them through a job with no filters or jargon. I have experimented with the same item in the format of a carousel, a still picture and a written post. Nothing pulls the same response as a calm, narrated screen share. The best-performing one was less than 40 seconds, displaying the comparison of five services of a 1,000-dollar transfer. It generated 172 leads in five days.

Matt Woodley, Founder & Editor-in-Chief, InternationalMoneyTransfer.com

Private Groups Reach 80% Engagement vs Algorithms

I have decided to put some energy into private communities where content does not totally get buried by algorithms.

What I usually do is I run groups on Discord and WhatsApp and the engagement inside them reaches close to 80 percent compared to just a few percent on public feeds.

Sharing content that is quick to produce and not overproduced has been key since people respond more to legitimacy than the polished content.

These smaller groups have made it easier to keep a consistent connection and move people toward actual conversions. I have seen this change work well for both service-based companies and e-commerce brands.

The other force in results has been short-lived sessions. My clients are streaming directly to warehouses or offices and spend only 10 to 15 minutes there, and such sessions tend to be even more successful than scheduled campaigns.

One furniture company has tripled conversions by answering product questions in real time during a stream. Sequencing short-form videos has been another win. The first one appeals to a pain point, the second one contains one action point, and the third one goes to a landing page. 

Separating them across a week has increased conversion rates by 3 to 5 percent without increasing ad spend.

Paul DeMott, Chief Technology Officer, Helium SEO

Build Real Relationships Instead of Selling

The strategy that has been effective on social media is building actual, real life relationships with your audience and not just throwing out advertisements. People also feel fed up being sold to all the time and so it is getting more about content that is natural and relatable. With me and my clients, it has not been so much about getting a large audience as it has been about forming communities that have interests or a problem. It is in the discovery of how to craft content that appeals to the unique requirements of that community and delivers value in the way as perceived in the shape of what appears to be of individual interest.

We also learned that live interactions like a question and answer session, product demos or even a back stage look at the business works. It is the issue of showing the human face of the brand and defining the spheres of communication. These are real life, interesting moments that do move the needle that ultimately turn the free follower into the loyal supporter.

Caleb Johnstone, SEO Director, Paperstack

Human-Forward Education Builds Trust in Real Estate

Something that’s working for us is having a human-forward, education-based approach to our social media. For example, we post a lot of short-form video content, where we have people talking about the real estate industry and answering questions that people have. Basically, we want to be a resource that people feel like they can trust, and by providing down-to-earth educational content in a way that’s easily digestible, that’s been working for us.

Seamus Nally, CEO, TurboTenant

Native Chat Opt-Ins Cut Friction, Boost Conversions

Native email opt-ins…This method is giving us stronger conversions since we are delivering value right inside the platform instead of forcing users to go through multiple links or fill out long forms on an external page.

When somebody messages us on Instagram or responds to a story, we will then reply with the lead magnet right there in the chat. This has cut the friction since people get what they asked for fast and we capture the lead without breaking their scroll.

This was something we tested during our most recent freight education series, where we offered a simple breakdown of common delays in customs. We shared the first tip in a story and asked people to message “Customs” if they wanted the rest of it.

Every message triggered an instant delivery with a PDF & a soft invite to speak with a broker. The open rate was almost perfect because everything happened inside the app itself. No one had to jump out and we got booked consults without any cold chasing.

Allan Hou, Sales Director, TSL Australia

Varied Content Breaks Through AI Repetitiveness

Something that seems to be working well is making sure that your social media content is varied. A lot of times, when businesses use AI to create their content, there ends up being a general repetitiveness, and that repetitiveness can start to feel inauthentic and not very unique. When you can at least shake up the kind of content you post, even if that just means switching between videos, photos, written text, and graphics, that can go a long way.

Steve Schwab, CEO, Casago

Video Responses to Comments Outperform Paid Ads

What is working this year for our company is replying to comments with short-form video responses. It has been able to do more engagement compared to most of the paid campaigns we have been trying in the past. 

When one makes a question or even a complaint, I make an immediate video recording of the response and post it within 24 hours. Individuals are aware that an actual person is listening, and that alters how they deal with the brand.

We have tested this on a local Facebook post about unit security. A question was raised as to how we compare to the national chains as far as facilities go. My response was a 48-second video in which I enter our access gate system and show the camera feed at the location. 

The number of views on that video response was more than 6,200 within two days. That single comment thread brought in 23 DMs and resulted in 9 bookings within 72 hours, including one client who prepaid for 12 months upfront. 

This was a far better tactic than the last 150 we spent on static ads, which only gave us 3 clicks and 0 conversions. It is raw, it is not scripted, but it does work.

Faraz Hemani, Chief Executive Officer, Iron Storage

Real-Time Process Demonstrations Capture Immediate Attention

Demonstrate the process in real time. Having generic content will be overlooked but a step by step process of going through an actual transaction process will instantly capture the attention of the reader and make them want to engage. 

In my business, that would be five to ten minutes on the air to decompress how a buyer is buying a 250,000 dollar home with three percent down what his or her monthly payment will be, how his or her closing costs are priced.

Viewers who are watching this will get the feeling that they are involved in the transaction and as such are much more likely to contact the program to ask them to help them with their own circumstances.

A single live breakdown can pose more questions than a whole month of scheduled posts. Viewers can ask you a question as they watch and getting to respond to them there, will establish trust much quicker than any advertising. These sessions do not even require a heavy production. Recording on a phone within the office and using real numbers on active deals are transparent and pierce through AI-saturated feeds to make actual business happen.

Ryan McCallister, President & Founder, F5 Mortgage

Practical Short-Form Education Delivers Real Value

Short-form education…but only when the educational content teaches something practical in 30 to 60 seconds. Not fluff, not general ideas, real value. I personally watched it grow through solutions to algorithm challenges or code interview suggestions in a style that is more of an older engineer telling you some fast tips than an advertisement. It is consistency and clarity that counts.

We also have been effectively scripting, editing and scheduling videos using AI. I have a direct hand in the review of the content. When it does not sound the way I would tell it in reality, it never goes on air.

LinkedIn threads and X threads suit me when I am talking as a founder who is developing a product- and not a marketer. Human beings associate themselves with transparency. Real product enhancements or behind the scenes choices can be used as screen shots and tend to outdo generic promotional communication.

DMs and comments are not dead. You will flatline by missing conversations and only posting. Interaction, not automation brings real traction.

Mircea Dima, CTO / Software Engineer, AlgoCademy

Live Streams With Time-Sensitive Offers Drive Bookings

Running short live streams with time-sensitive offers. I go live on Facebook every Thursday at 6:30 PM and announce a deal that is exclusive and runs only until midnight.

One week I did half price switchboard checks to the viewers in the chat, the next week I discounted 20 percent off data cabling installs that were booked in 24 hours. All of these briefings are under 10 minutes and I answer questions in real time and do a mini walkthrough of something I have done recently or some safety tips right out of the field.

This is more effective than boosted posts or simply updating the feed since the people are aware of the fact that the offer is time-bound and restricted to the session. We have received more direct reservations in the one-hour window following a live stream than we would have in the seven days of scheduled posts. In the live, the people leave questions in the comments about their suburb or problem, and I answer them on the spot, which keeps the discussion going and leads to bookings.

We still continue to post pictures and status updates during the week, but those lives get more action than anything. It has turned into a ritual now and some of the clients would also send messages in advance to enquire what our offer will be on Thursday.

Caspar Matthews, Director, Electcomm Group Electrical & Data

Persistent, Personal Content Generates Valuable Interest

It’s true that AI lets people churn out a lot more slop, [but] the kind of content that generates sustained engagement, and more importantly, sales, is persistent, personal, and authentic. 

Post every day. Share your successes, your failures, your inside jokes, and your process. This is the kind of content that’s going to generate sustained, valuable interest.

Jonathan Palley, CEO, QR Codes Unlimited

Technical Problem-Solving Carousels Attract Property Managers

Using LinkedIn’s carousel posts to break down how we actually solve technical problems on-site. Here, we use step-by-step slides to explain the job that we do such as diagnosing low water pressure in a unit block or replacing a gas regulator in an emergency callout. All the posts are in plain language, and real site photographs were used, no stock images, and a step-by-step walk-through of the initial phone call to completion.

As an example, we posted a job related to a blocked drain at a childcare centre in Norwood. The first slide was the flooded entrance and the first call had a brief description. The following few slides contain CCTV footage, root intrusion of 6.2 metres, jetting process and the collapsed pipe that we have revealed. We included some photos of our installations, the digging point, safety precautions, and the new section of the pipes when installing. The last slide was a cleaned area and a brief quote from the centre manager that confirmed that the job was completed prior to pick up time.

That post reached over 4,300 impressions in five days and drew 36 comments, mostly from property managers. It led to two maintenance contracts and three quote requests. Before this, static image posts barely reached 1,200 views and rarely brought direct enquiries.

Caleb John, Director, Exceed Plumbing

Content Repurposing Boosts Cross-Platform Engagement

We have not been keen on content repurposing across platforms in the past since we believed that each of the platforms needed a different type of content. However, content repurposing proved to be one of the best ways to reach a larger audience.

In this case, we used a blog post that discussed the plumbing maintenance tips and made a series of Instagram posts, TikTok videos, and even a YouTube short.

The outcome was 30 percent more interaction on Instagram alone in the first week, as well as 25 percent more visits to our site thanks to the cross-platform links.

Repurposing gives us the opportunity to stretch the life of content to the maximum without having to work on it. What once took us 2 hours to write, a blog post, can now be used to create 5-7 posts of different formats reaching various segments of our audience.

Steven Bahbah, Managing Director, Service First Plumbing

Editor’s note – if you have podcasts or videos you want to repurpose into content for social media and your website, I HIGHLY recommend Castmagic! Click here to start a free trial now!

* Yes, this is an affiliate link that provides me a commission if you purchase at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support!

Local Content Creates Niche, Personal Appeal

I’ve noticed that leaning into the local aspect of things can be really helpful. When people follow or pay attention to the social media posts of businesses, they want, and expect, those posts to be relevant to them specifically. Appealing to the local element can help with that. It makes content appear more niche and personal.

Jeremy Yamaguchi, CEO, Cabana

Human-Centric Content Builds Trust and Authenticity

What’s working is human-centric content. Content that is not only clearly created by real people, but that champions real people as well. It’s true that many are really fatigued by AI right now, so coming across social media content posted by a business that seems genuine and human-focused can be like a breath of fresh air. It helps establish a better sense of trust and authenticity right off the bat.

Edward Tian, CEO, GPTZero

Unedited Client Messages Drive Quote Requests

This year, we have seen large returns reposting client messages exactly as they were sent, without editing, formatting or branding.

I started taking screenshots of WhatsApp replies, direct messages and emails from clients who were approved or saved money through one of our policies.

One message said, “Got the paperwork sorted. Thanks again, mate. You have just saved us £42 a month.” 

I shared that screenshot to Instagram and with a short caption and nothing else aside from that. Within 36 hours, that post brought in 29 quote requests through our link. It reached more than 3,800 accounts and the save rate was five times higher than any of our runs in the last quarter.

Every month now, my goal is to post at least five of these. It does not cost anything to maintain the pipeline full, and it originates directly with the people we assisted.

Steve Case, Financial & Insurance Consultant, Insurance Hero

Own Your Email List, Not Rented Followers

I primarily use LinkedIn for my business, and it recently joined the “pay to play” party. It’s so annoying!

My number one piece of advice for all my clients is to create a way to get people off social media platforms because they’re rented spaces.

I’d take 5K followers and 4K email addresses over 100K followers and 500 email addresses any day!

To capture those email addresses, create a free downloadable resource, a mini online course, or a quiz. You own your email list. Just make sure you include a disclaimer explaining that they’ll receive communication from you after accessing the resources.

Portia Obeng, Social Media Strategist & LinkedIn Coach, Portia Obeng LLC

Creator Partnerships Outperform Traditional Branded Posts

We believe it is a mix of human and creator-led content powered by connected media. 

Long-term partnerships with trusted influencers consistently outperform traditional branded posts, especially through short-form video on TikTok, Reels, and YouTube Shorts, and we use AI to speed up processes and place influencer content in different media formats. 

From a content perspective, we are noticing a shift in the type of content people want to see thanks to AI. 

They either prefer very evidently human-led content and storytelling which feels natural and relatable, or they are moving back to longer-form, deeper content with substance and high quality effects or escapism. 

People enjoy content that’s been made using AI if it elevates human creativity, not replaces it.

Joanna Hughston, Head of Marketing (UK/US), The Goat Agency

Social Listening Tools Turn Chatter Into Connections

Leveraging social listening tools is at the heart of online success in 2025. The features within these tools help track and analyze online conversations about your business. 

Social listening tools act as your digital radar, constantly tuned in to online conversations.

Why do they work? They utilize Al to find patterns and metrics in social media data. They tap into real conversations and analyze audiences in real time.

The catch is, AI content only works when it actually reflects what your audience cares about and that’s where social listening comes in, helping you turn online chatter into content that truly connects.

Matt Dawson, VP, Growth Marketing, Brandwatch

UGC Short Videos Beat Polished Content

The biggest differentiation factor in our eyes is UGC style short form video content. 

You cannot dictate how people are going to consume your content except if you are a large multinational company [with] millions of dollars to spend in changing public perception. They want to see TikTok/Reel/Shorts style videos with less editing, less polished and more real. 

Saying that, it doesn’t mean that you should just post bad quality content or just follow trends. Focus on your story and what you want to be known for. Know your target audience and create content for them. 

Final step, promote it on the correct platform. If your core target base is up to 45 use Instagram. If they are older, use Facebook. If you have a larger budget it’s always worth to test on both and see which one drives the best results. 

Remember to always stay vigilant on how your audience consumes content and any swifts in behaviour. What works today won’t necessarily work tomorrow so be prepared to pivot when necessary. 

Thanos Zeppos, Co-founder, BRINQQ Marketing

Raw, Unfiltered Content Creates Trust and Connection

Personal content is outperforming by a mile right now. People are inherently voyeuristic, so what draws them in isn’t just your highlight reel, but instead is the behind-the-scenes, unfiltered version of your life or business.

Mixing polished, aspirational content with more raw, emotionally grounded moments makes your brand feel human. The curated posts might inspire, but it’s the imperfect, real moments that create trust and connection.

This is why people love podcasts where people are wearing normal clothes, all-day livestreams, GRWM videos, and similar.

This same principle applies to how you think about growth through collaborations. People discover brands they love through people they trust. Whether it’s influencers, micro-creators, or other aligned brands, partnerships work best when they feel authentic and rooted in shared values or lived experiences.

When done right, these collaborations can [massively] expand reach and deepen credibility at the same time.

Makena Finger Zannini, CEO, The Boutique COO

Effective Social Media Strategies Driving Results Facebook

To Succeed On Social Media: It’s All About Connection

After diving deep into these expert insights, one thing becomes crystal clear: the future of social media marketing isn’t about outsmarting algorithms or producing perfect, polished content.

It’s about returning to the fundamentals of human connection that made social media compelling in the first place.

The common threads weaving through every successful strategy are authenticity, consistency, and genuine value creation.

Whether it’s Sean’s 30-second educational reels that generated two paying customers, or Iron Storage’s video responses to comments that outperformed expensive ad campaigns, the winners are those who show up as real people solving real problems.

Here are the key takeaways I plan to start implementing immediately:

– Start conversations, not broadcasts. The most successful businesses are using social media as a two-way street, responding to comments with video replies and engaging in real-time during live streams.

– Embrace imperfection. Unedited client testimonials, behind-the-scenes footage shot on phones, and unpolished tutorials are outperforming expensive branded content because they feel genuine.

– Build communities, not follower counts. Private groups, Discord channels, and email lists are where the real magic happens. The best is email lists though because they are the only spaces you own and control, free from algorithmic interference.

– Use AI as a tool, not a replacement. The smartest creators are using AI to streamline processes while keeping their human voice front and center.

As someone who’s survived nearly two decades in the content creation industry, I’ve learned that every major shift in digital marketing feels overwhelming at first.

But those who adapt by focusing on timeless principles (i.e. helping people, building trust, and creating genuine value) will always find a way to thrive.

The platforms may change, the algorithms may shift, but human nature remains constant. 

People want to connect with people, not perfect brands. In an oversaturated AI slop of a digital space, that might just be your biggest competitive advantage.

12 Ways Podcasting Can Benefit Your Business or Personal Brand

12 Ways Podcasting Can Benefit Your Business or Personal Brand banner

12 entrepreneurs reveal how podcasting drives real business results; from landing 5K+ clients to building trust that converts better than ads.

“Should I start a podcast?” It’s the question every entrepreneur asks themselves at some point while scrolling through their phone, wondering if they should join the millions of people already talking into microphones about everything from true crime to cryptocurrency.

Look, I get it. Podcasting can seem like another overwhelming marketing tactic to add to your already jam-packed to-do list. But what if I told you that some of the smartest business minds are using podcasts not just to build their brands, but to actually land clients, forge partnerships, and even discover what their customers are really thinking?

I asked 12 savvy entrepreneurs and thought leaders a simple question: “How has podcasting helped move the needle in your business?” Their answers might just convince you to dust off that microphone (or finally buy one). Spoiler alert: these aren’t your typical “start a podcast because everyone else is” stories!

Podcasting Builds Trust and Attracts Quality Clients

Podcasting can be a unique way of personal branding and developing lasting relationships. Podcasting provides a uniquely personal, ongoing relationship with your audience, and allows them to continuously explore complex themes of architectural visualisation. Episodes last between 30 – 60 minutes, allowing me to talk about my expertise and zealousness, which neither articles nor social media can fully provide. In a podcast format, listeners can develop a unique trust and familiarity which adds to the possibilities of visual brand building.

Podcasting has further cemented our authority and credibility directly in our rules. Our broadcast (Rendered Realities) promoted me as a thought leader. Based on a single episode discussing the return on investments of quality architectural renderings, we received a 15% increase in inquiries directly referring to topics from my podcast. These potential clients were informed and “warmed up.” The conversation shifted from a cold introductory approach to a productive dialogue that did use possible concern (money) or insecurity about their project.

A real estate developer, for instance, contacted us after listening to over 10 episodes of “Rendered Realities.” They explicitly chose us, bypassing others, because they trusted my insights from the show. This contact quickly turned into a substantial project, valued at over 5,000 dollars, within three weeks. It clearly showed how podcasting cultivates relationships and builds authority, leading to direct client acquisition.

Alex Smith, Manager & Co-owner, Render 3D Quick

Authentic Podcasting Creates Trust Beyond Marketing Reach

I started a podcast to delve into the complicated truths of cross-border eCommerce, not for the sake of attracting downloads but to present genuine stories. In one of the initial episodes, I highlighted a small seller from Manila who successfully entered the EU market through local partnerships and determination. That conversation unexpectedly brought in messages from listeners across four countries asking for guidance. Within weeks, I had secured two consulting clients and a vendor collaboration. The podcast became more than content; it built quiet trust. I noticed that people who reached out already felt aligned with our values and came ready to work. I did not push any service on air, yet leads arrived because the authenticity resonated. Podcasting introduced a new aspect to my brand-building efforts. When someone quotes a moment from an episode and tells me it gave them clarity to act, I know the format is doing far more than marketing ever could.

Faizan Khan, Public Relations and Content Marketing Specialist, Ubuy Singapore

Podcasts Build Expert Status and Client Relationships

Starting a podcast was one of the best moves for my business, and it really helped to carve out a distinct brand in the saturated market. By consistently sharing content that my audience finds valuable, I’ve set myself apart as an expert in my field. Not only does this build trust, but it’s also a great way to network. Through various episodes, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with industry leaders, which has extended my reach and brought in diverse perspectives.

Interestingly, the direct impact on acquiring new clients was gradual, but it’s noticeable. Listeners often reach out after getting a good feel for how I approach problems and provide solutions, which turns into consultations and eventually, long-term relationships. The key is consistency and genuine engagement. It’s about providing real value and not just pitching your services non-stop. Keep at it and soon you’ll see how your voice can pull the right people in.

Alex Cornici, Marketing & PR Coordinator, Magic Hour AI

Guest Podcasting Establishes Authority in Electrical Industry

Being a guest on podcasts is an extremely effective, yet seldom used, tactic for building my personal brand and increasing Hello Electrical’s network. It is a stark contrast to traditional articles or a short interview, allowing for a more authentic, free-flowing conversation that highlights both expertise and personality. The longer duration of a podcast episode (often 30 to 60 minutes) allows for an in-depth discussion of complicated topics and to offer insightful perspectives. 

When I am on podcasts, I usually focus on broader and more strategic topics that directly relate to our services. For example, I’ve given talks on the electrical requirements of smart homes and future-proofing electrical infrastructure. Each engagement presents an opportunity to position myself, and by transitive property, Hello Electrical, at the top of the thought leadership pyramid. Listeners recognize my voice and my approach, creating a level of rapport and trust that isn’t often replicated in a traditional advertising placement. Most audience members are homeowners, property developers or other business owners looking for information – just like what I am doing.

Jason Rowe, Marketing Specialist, Director and Founder, Hello Electrical

Podcast Appearances Build Stronger Trust Than Pitches

I haven’t launched a full-scale podcast yet, though it’s something that comes up frequently in discussions with founders and investors we work with at spectup. I’ve been a guest on quite a few shows, and I can say that the indirect benefits are stronger than most expect—especially in building trust. When someone hears you speak for 30 minutes about hard-earned lessons, they get a clearer sense of your approach and values. That’s something a pitch deck alone can’t deliver.

One founder who heard me on a niche startup podcast reached out within days, saying, “You sounded like you actually get it.” That led to a full advisory engagement with spectup, and he’s still with us. So yes, podcasting can absolutely drive business—but it’s more about long-term positioning than quick conversions. People rarely listen and then immediately sign a contract; they observe over time. It’s a slow burn, but it builds strong equity.

If I do launch a podcast myself, it won’t be filled with puffed-up interviews or fluff. I’d rather share real stories—like when a founder panicked mid-pitch and we had to improvise an entirely new narrative on the spot. Those are the moments people relate to.

Niclas Schlopsna, Managing Consultant and CEO, spectup

Strategic Podcast Guesting Delivers Measurable Business Results

Podcasting has been an incredible channel for building relationships in the 3PL industry, though I approach it differently than many executives. Rather than hosting my own show, I’ve made it a priority to be a guest on logistics and eCommerce podcasts like The Logistics of Logistics, Debutify, and The New Warehouse.

This strategy has delivered tremendous value for Fulfill.com. Each appearance creates meaningful connections with podcast hosts who are often influential voices in the industry. More importantly, it puts me in front of thousands of eCommerce operators actively seeking fulfillment solutions – exactly our target audience.

I remember one particular podcast where I shared a story about my early days operating a fulfillment center in a former morgue (talk about conversation starter!). That authentic moment resonated with listeners, and within days, we received inquiries from brands who connected with our scrappy, problem-solving approach.

The ROI has been significant. We regularly track new partnerships that originate from podcast appearances, and I’d estimate about 15% of our enterprise-level clients first discovered us through a podcast. One of our largest clients – a beauty brand shipping 100,000+ orders monthly – reached out directly after hearing me discuss regional carrier optimization strategies.

Beyond client acquisition, podcasting strengthens our industry position. When I discuss topics like “multi-node distribution models” or “dimensional weight optimization,” it establishes our expertise and builds trust with potential partners.

My advice? Don’t feel pressured to create your own show. Strategic guest appearances on established podcasts targeting your ideal audience can be far more efficient for building your brand and generating quality leads. The key is bringing genuine insights rather than just promoting your service.

Joe Spisak, CEO, Fulfill.com

Podcast Appearances Drive Traffic and Business Partnerships

I’ve dipped into podcasting to boost my brand and network. It’s like chatting with your audience at a dive bar — real, direct, builds trust. My appearances, diving into ayahuasca safety and retreat picks, got 10% more site traffic after sharing wild stories. Two retreat centers partnered on after hearing me break down transparency.

Chris Brewer, Managing Director, Best Retreats

Industry Podcasts Position Limo Service as Authority

We currently don’t have an Angel City Limo podcast, but I have been featured on a few different podcasts in our industry, and there I offer advice on luxury transportation, customer service, growing a company, etc. So it’s been possible to reach a wider audience and to establish a position as an authority in the transportation and service industry. 

Podcasting has also created opportunities for new businesses. I’ve met potential partners, investors, and even clients through these podcasts who value the knowledge and wisdom that gets doled out in these interviews. For example, a single appearance resulted in a relationship with a corporate travel agency that now refers their high-net-worth clients to Angel City Limo. The direct “podcast to client” pipeline isn’t always immediate, and there is still an interesting journey ahead for our brand’s reputation to benefit more, but in exceeding other channels, we’ve won companies by default who will know, like, and respect us, long before their heads start nodding. 

As a whole, though, podcasting has helped us expand our network and continue to make Angel City Limo a go-to in luxury travel. It has been a great way for us to be in touch with the stakeholders, firm and those of the companies that appreciate knowledge, and thought leadership. If you are thinking about starting a podcast for your business, my advice is this: just focus on delivering as much value and expertise as possible, and everything else will flow from that.

Arsen Misakyan, CEO and Founder, Angel City Limo

Podcast Reveals Patient Struggles Hidden During Appointments

I started Smart Digestion Radio thinking it would be another marketing channel. What actually happened surprised me. The real value wasn’t in direct client acquisition – it was in discovering what my patients were too embarrassed to tell me face-to-face.

When listeners email questions for the show, they share struggles they’d never mention during appointments. One woman wrote about how her Crohn’s disease made her cancel three dates because she was terrified of eating in public. Another revealed he’d been secretly taking double doses of enzymes, thinking more meant faster results. These anonymous confessions transformed how I practice. I now ask different questions, address unspoken fears, and create protocols for problems patients didn’t know they could solve. The podcast became my research lab for understanding the emotional side of digestive health that clinical training never taught me.

Christine Kaczmar, Digestion Doctor, Laser Slim

Non-Business Podcast Becomes Unexpected Lead Generator

Absolutely podcasting has massive upside! When I was running a web development business, I became a recurring guest on a podcast that focused more on pop culture than business. Despite the casual format, think morning show meets social commentary, I sponsored the show and casually mentioned my services in a recurring segment. 

Surprisingly, that lighthearted, non-business-specific podcast turned out to be one of the best lead generators we ever had. I noticed a clear uptick in inbound leads after a few consistent months. I believe the key was familiarity: as the audience heard me mentioned week after week, I became part of their routine. That recognition translated into trust, and trust turned into client inquiries.

In short, podcasting works! Even when the content is not overtly “businessy.” It builds credibility, consistency, and connection over time. That combination made it one of the most efficient lead drivers I ever used.

James DeLapa, SEO & Web Strategy Expert, Bottom Line Insights

Podcasting Transforms Voice into Trust and Clients

Yes, podcasting has become a lead magnet for me and for Estorytellers. While I didn’t start with the goal of landing clients, it naturally happened as I shared real stories about entrepreneurship, the publishing industry, and building something from scratch.

Podcasting helped me build trust at scale. People hear your voice, your values, your vision—it humanizes you beyond LinkedIn posts or emails. It also became a networking magnet. Guests I invited often turned into collaborators or clients, and listeners reached out feeling like they already knew me.

Podcasting, if done authentically and with value, builds your personal brand and serves as a subtle but steady client acquisition method.

Kritika Kanodia, CEO, Estorytellers

Podcasting Falls Short for Brand Building Unless You Can Get Found

I’ve consciously chosen not to start a podcast. The reason is that the effort-to-reach ratio is simply not as favorable as other channels for building a brand from a cold audience. Podcasting is largely a ‘destination’ medium. People need to know you exist to find your show, which makes organic discovery incredibly slow. It’s a powerful tool for nurturing an existing community, but it’s not an efficient engine for creating one.

My focus has always been on platforms with built-in, algorithmic discovery, like TikTok and Instagram. These channels are designed to push your content to thousands of potential new clients who have never heard of you. For direct client acquisition and top-of-funnel brand building, the ROI from short-form video is exponentially higher. I see podcasting as a great ‘Phase 2’ strategy, once you’ve already built the initial audience elsewhere.

Maxwell Finn, Founder, Unicorn Innovations

Editor’s note: My response to this is that if you’re worried about getting found, you just need to improve your optimization of your show! Sure, you can share on social media, but podcasting gives you something truly special – something you own (that is, as long as you choose the right host!)

Check out this video on podcast discoverability for some awesome ideas on getting your podcast found by your ideal listeners:

Smart Entrepreneurs Choose Podcasting Over Traditional Marketing

Podcasting is actually moving the needle for businesses, not just filling up Apple Podcasts with more noise. From the CEO who landed a major client after they binged 10 episodes, to the doctor who discovered her patients’ secret struggles, these aren’t pie-in-the-sky promises – they’re results from people who decided to give podcasting a real shot.

The best part? You don’t need to be the next Joe Rogan to see results. Whether you start your own show or strategically guest on others, the magic happens when you focus on delivering genuine value instead of just pitching your services every five minutes.

Ready to turn your voice into your secret weapon? Your future clients are probably already wearing headphones, just waiting to discover someone who actually gets it. Time to give them something worth listening to! Click here to launch your podcast for free*! 

* This is an affiliate link that provides me with a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support!

Experts Reveal Their Go-To Nutrition Podcasts (And Why They’re Actually Worth Your Time)

Experts Reveal Their Go-To Nutrition Podcasts Banner

15 experts reveal their favorite nutrition podcasts. From evidence-based advice to practical tips, discover the shows transforming how we think about food.

Tired of nutrition advice that sounds like it came from a robot in a lab coat? Same here! With so much conflicting information floating around the internet (keto good! keto bad! carbs are evil! carbs are life!), finding trustworthy nutrition guidance can feel like searching for a healthy snack at a gas station – technically possible, but pretty darn challenging.

That’s why I decided to ask some health-savvy thought leaders a simple question: “Who is your favorite nutrition podcaster and why?” Fifteen people responded, and their answers might just save you from falling down another rabbit hole of questionable wellness trends. 

Top Nutrition Podcasters (Based on Responses):

Most Mentioned Favorites:

  • Dr. Rhonda Patrick – FoundMyFitness (4 mentions)
  • Monica Reinagel – The Nutrition Diva (3 mentions)
  • Simon Hill – The Proof (2 mentions)

Other Highly Recommended:

  • Shawn Stevenson – The Model Health Show
  • Danny Lennon – Sigma Nutrition
  • Dr. Yami Cazorla-Lancaster – Veggie Doctor Radio
  • Joseph Navarro – Burn it Nutrition Podcast
  • Dr. Rupy Aujla – The Doctor’s Kitchen
  • Max Lugavere – The Genius Life
  • Dr. Mark Hyman

Now that you know the top recommendations, let’s dive into WHY these thought leaders were so keen on these nutrition podcast picks!

Simon Hill Delivers Evidence-Based Nutrition Without Clickbait

I keep coming back to Simon Hill’s The Proof because he doesn’t just talk about nutrition—he backs every claim with data, nuance, and clinical context.

What sets him apart is his ability to translate complex nutritional science into decisions you can actually act on without falling into diet culture traps or sensationalism. It’s balanced, evidence-led, and refreshingly free of clickbait.

I’m David Quintero, CEO of NewswireJet. Building a high-output agency demands stamina and clarity—Simon’s podcast has helped me fine-tune both through smarter nutrition choices.

David Quintero, CEO and Marketing Expert, NewswireJet

Nutrition Diva Makes Complex Food Science Accessible

I’ve been listening to a lot of “The Nutrition Diva” Podcast by Monica Reinagel lately, and it’s been a game changer for me. Monica has this way of making complex nutrition topics really accessible and easy to understand. She also provides practical, actionable tips, so every episode leaves you with something you can start doing right away to improve your diet.

What’s particularly cool is how she debunks common myths around food and dieting, which is super helpful with all the misinformation out there. Each podcast episode is concise but packed with valuable insights. If you’re looking to up your nutrition game without getting bored or overwhelmed, you should give her a listen. She’s got this straightforward, friendly approach that feels like you’re just chatting with a knowledgeable friend.

Alex Cornici, Marketing & PR Coordinator, Magic Hour AI

Dr. Rhonda Patrick Brings Scientific Weight to Nutrition

Foundmyfitness 

My favorite podcast has to be FoundMyFitness, hosted by Dr. Rhonda Patrick. I respect Dr. Rhonda for a couple of key reasons I think are important to nutrition. For starters, she’s smart. Although she doesn’t dumb things down for a casual audience, you can tell that what she’s saying has weight and leverage in everything she’s saying. 

When you’re listening to her, you’re listening to an expert in the field. To add to that, she doesn’t mess around in selling shady products and will call them out. A good nutritionist is someone who has the credibility to back themselves up. Go check out FoundMyFitness if you haven’t; it’s great.

Eric Sornoso, Co-founder, Mealfan

Veggie Doctor Radio Offers Practical Child Nutrition Advice

Dr. Yami Cazorla-Lancaster from “Veggie Doctor Radio” is my top choice for nutrition podcasting. Her episodes focus on children’s health with practical advice that supports both medical and dental outcomes. She doesn’t chase food trends. She explains how daily choices, like juice instead of water or frequent snacking, can affect a child’s body and teeth. That’s a message every parent needs to hear.

One episode tackled sugar exposure in early childhood. She broke down how frequently sugar changes a child’s taste expectations. That matches what I see in the dental chair. Children with constant access to sweetened foods often show higher rates of decay. Her advice was simple and actionable. Offer water between meals. Serve fruit in whole form, not juice. Stop using food as a reward. Parents who follow those steps often see fewer cavities and better behavior at meals.

Her podcast also offers tools for plant-based nutrition. She introduces pediatricians and registered dietitians who outline how to foster growth and development using fewer processed foods. Families with allergies or attempting dietary changes find these segments clear without adding stress.

She speaks like a parent and a clinician. There’s no shame, no hype, only straight answers and realistic strategies. That makes her a strong resource for families who want to improve health outcomes without getting overwhelmed. If you want to align diet with long-term wellness for your child, “Veggie Doctor Radio” is worth your time.

Dr. Jasveen Singh, Pediatric Dentist & Owner, Pediatric Dentistry And Beyond

Nutrition Diva Transforms Complex Science Into Action

My favorite nutrition podcaster is The Nutrition Diva, hosted by Monica Reinagel. I love her straightforward, science-backed advice on healthy eating. What sets her apart is her ability to break down complex topics into simple, actionable tips without overwhelming listeners. She doesn’t just talk about trendy diets or fads but focuses on balanced nutrition and sustainable habits. I’ve learned a lot from her episodes about portion control, food labeling, and the real impact of certain foods on our long-term health. Her clear, relatable style makes it easy to integrate small changes into my own diet without feeling like I need to overhaul everything at once. It’s practical, honest, and grounded in evidence—exactly what I need to make smarter food choices.

Nikita Sherbina, Co-Founder & CEO, AIScreen

Dr. Patrick Translates Biology Into Real-Life Strategies

Hands down, my favorite nutrition podcaster is Dr. Rhonda Patrick from FoundMyFitness. She’s not just reciting studies or repackaging trends; she’s translating hardcore molecular biology into real-life optimization strategies. For someone juggling international travel, four kids, and the need to feel sharp without burning out, her episodes are gold.

She connects the dots between micronutrients, gene expression, mitochondrial function, and performance in a way that actually scales to daily life. One episode on sauna use and omega-3 synergy literally changed how I schedule recovery. Another on broccoli sprouts had me pairing post-Hypervibe sessions with sulforaphane smoothies. That’s how actionable and nerdy-useful her content is.

I’m not just interested in what to eat, I want to know why, when, and how it impacts my biology long-term. That’s where Rhonda shines.

Murray Seaton, Founder and CEO / Health & Fitness Entrepreneur, Hypervibe (Vibration Plates)

Burn It Nutrition Blends Science With Engaging Storytelling

My favorite nutrition podcaster is Joseph Navarro, host of the Burn it Nutrition Podcast. What sets this show apart is how Joseph blends science-backed nutrition insights with storytelling that actually keeps you hooked. He doesn’t just focus on trendy diets—he dives deep into metabolism, fat loss, mindset, and longevity with expert guests ranging from doctors to fitness pros. I also appreciate how he explains complex topics in a way that’s easy to understand, especially if you’re not from a science background. Plus, his cinematic intros and motivational tone make each episode feel more like a personal coaching session than a lecture. It’s both educational and inspiring—definitely my go-to when I want to level up my health knowledge.

Qianqian He, Founder, BOXKING GAMING

The Proof Tackles Plant-Based Nutrition With Evidence

As a nutrition coach who follows a mostly plant-based diet, I’m always looking to deepen my understanding of how to thrive without meat. My favorite nutrition podcast is The Proof with Simon Hill. Hill, a qualified physiotherapist and nutritionist, explores the science of longevity through topics like exercise, nutrition, mindfulness, recovery and sleep. I love how thoroughly he breaks down complex nutrition science, debunks nutrition myths, and supports his discussions with evidence-based research. He regularly invites leading experts to share the latest findings, which helps me stay informed.

Silvija Meilunaite, Nutrition Coach, Founder, Barefoot Basil

Sigma Nutrition Prioritizes Facts Over Trendy Diets

I listen to Danny Lennon from Sigma Nutrition. He doesn’t push trends. He sticks to facts and evidence. That’s rare now. Most podcasts flood you with hype. Danny cuts through noise with real studies and expert guests who work in clinical practice or research. He doesn’t guess. He explains what works and what’s still unproven. That’s useful when you’re running a food business where every ingredient matters.

One episode stuck with me. It broke down protein intake by meal, not just by day. That made me rethink how we portion fillings in our high-protein vegan options. We tested new ratios and got better feedback from customers looking for balanced meals. It wasn’t about chasing fads. It was about getting small things right, one bite at a time. When a podcaster gives you data you can use straight away, not just theories, you keep listening. That’s why I go back to Danny Lennon. He respects the listener and treats nutrition like a craft. That fits how we work at Rourke’s Pies. Quality over gimmicks. Precision over guesswork. Every episode reminds me to stay grounded in facts, whether I’m testing a new pie or talking to customers at the counter.

Gary Rourke, Owner, Rourke’s Pies

FoundMyFitness Delivers Science-Based Nutrition With Depth

My favorite nutrition podcaster is Dr. Rhonda Patrick of “FoundMyFitness.” Her evidence-based approach breaks down complex nutritional science into accessible insights, blending cutting-edge research with practical health tips. I appreciate how she covers topics like micronutrients, longevity, and metabolic health with clarity and depth, making it valuable for both experts and casual listeners. Her interviews with leading scientists add credibility and variety. This podcast empowers listeners to make informed dietary choices rooted in science, which is critical amid the noise of fad diets and misinformation.

Amir Husen, Content Writer, SEO Specialist & Associate, ICS Legal

Model Health Show Transforms Science Into Practical Steps

Shawn Stevenson from ”The Model Health Show” is my favorite nutrition podcast host.  He takes a pragmatic, data-driven, and patient-centered approach.  I appreciate that he simplifies difficult subjects into manageable steps that anyone can follow.  He keeps the human element in mind while concentrating on the science of nutrition.  My perspective on health has changed as a result of his programs on sleep, metabolism, and mental clarity.  He always asks for proof, not fads, and speaks with reliable experts.

His ability to communicate with those who are balancing actual duties is what makes him stand out.  He discusses health without giving sermons.  That aligns with my method of providing patient care.  People need practical solutions, not perfection.  When we pay attention to what we put into our bodies, Stevenson’s episodes show me how much influence we have over our own health.  When a patient inquires about changing their lifestyle, I frequently recommend his podcast.  His episodes are consistent with holistic care.  Small adjustments make a big difference.  Food quality is important.  It’s important to be consistent.

He establishes a certain amount of trust with his audience.  It’s not common.  He respects others and provides them with actionable information. That’s the kind of voice health care needs more of.

Aspen Noonan, CEO, Elevate Holistics

Business Podcast Sparks Unexpected Nutrition Journey

My favorite nutrition podcaster isn’t a nutritionist or health professional but a real estate agent-turned-business coach, Pat Flynn. I discovered him through his popular podcast, “Smart Passive Income,” which focuses on entrepreneurship and online businesses. He also has a shorter podcast, “AskPat,” where he answers listener questions in 5-10 minute episodes.

One day, I found an AskPat episode where Pat interviewed Amanda Tress, founder of the FASTer Way to Fat Loss program. As someone interested in health and fitness, this caught my attention. What stood out was how knowledgeable and passionate both Pat and Amanda were about their fields. Their dedication to building successful businesses based on their passions was inspiring.

This boosted my interest in online entrepreneurship. I started listening to more episodes of AskPat, exploring other business podcasts, reading books, following blogs, and attending webinars on the subject.

Michael Yerardi, Founder & CEO, Turning Point Home Buyers

Doctor’s Kitchen Brings Humanity to Nutrition Advice

My favorite nutrition podcaster is Dr. Rupy Aujla from The Doctor’s Kitchen. What sets him apart is how grounded he is—he talks about health in a way that feels human, not clinical or guilt-trippy. He’s honest about the messiness of life and doesn’t preach perfection.

I also appreciate that he brings curiosity and culture into the conversation. It’s not just about nutrients; it’s about how we live, what we value, and how we care for ourselves without shame. That kind of approach feels real to me, and it sticks.

Bernhard Schaus, Online Marketer, Beyond Chutney

Genius Life Podcast Transforms Dementia Fear Into Action

My favourite nutrition podcast is The Genius Life with Max Lugavere. I found it not long after my mum was diagnosed with early-onset dementia, I first came across his book “the genius life” and I was starting to panic a bit about where my own life was heading. Suddenly, I was looking at food, health, and the future in a completely different way.

Max went through something similar with his mum, and you can hear it really resonated as I’m sure it does for anyone with a connection to dementia. He’s not in this to sell shakes or shout about miracle supplements. He sounds like someone trying to figure it all out, and constantly evolving his own opinions.

The guests he has on aren’t celebrities. Half the time I’ve never heard of them, but they know their stuff. Proper scientists, researchers, doctors. And it’s not preachy. You actually come away learning something without feeling like you’ve been lectured. I listen most weeks sometimes while I’m cooking or half-listening with the kids climbing on me and it weirdly keeps me on track health wise just by keeping it fresh in my mind.

His book, Genius Foods, had a massive impact on me. It’s the first time anything about nutrition actually made sense in a practical way. I cut sugar properly after reading it, started caring more about fats, and began thinking long-term instead of just dieting for a quick fix. It didn’t feel like a massive lifestyle overhaul, but more like being given a map when you’ve been driving in circles for years.

What I really rate is that he’s honest. He’ll say, “Yeah, I’ve changed my view on that,” even if it means contradicting something he said in his own book. That kind of openness is rare. Especially in a space full of people who act like they’ve got all the answers.

I know this is starting to sound like a bit of a love letter, but honestly, it has sort of changed my life.

Phil O’Dwyer, Author, Winging It Worldwide

Dr. Hyman Links Better Eating With Dental Health

One nutrition podcast that I follow is Dr. Mark Hyman. He provides straightforward guidance on what food does to health. He emphasizes simple habits, less sugar, more whole foods, and balanced meals. This is what I observe in the office. Bad eating tends to create gum issues, tooth decay, and other issues. When you eat better, your mouth gets better. Less pain. Fewer issues. Better healing.

He introduces guests from various professions, but makes the message simple. His shows revolve around practical changes individuals can implement. Baby steps, not strict meal plans. That does make an impact. It makes people stick to it.

Nutrition impacts how the entire body functions. It also manifests in the mouth initially. Eating healthier foods creates healthier, more resilient teeth, fewer infections, and improved long-term outcomes. His podcast does that for individuals. That is the reason why I am still listening.

Dr. Stephen Norton, Dentist, Norton Dental Arts Family & Cosmetic Dentist

Skip the Wellness BS and Check Out These Nutrition Podcasts

That’s a wrap on the best nutrition podcasts according to people who actually know their stuff! Whether you’re looking for hardcore molecular biology breakdowns (hello, Dr. Rhonda Patrick fans!) or practical tips you can actually use while your kids are climbing on you (shoutout to Max Lugavere listeners), there’s something here for every type of health enthusiast.

The best part? These aren’t the podcasters pushing the latest fad diet or miracle supplement. They’re the ones doing the hard work of translating real science into advice you can actually live with. So grab your headphones, pick a podcast that speaks to you, and get ready to become the person who actually knows what they’re talking about at dinner parties.

6 Significant Benefits of Using Beehiiv for Your Newsletter: What Industry Experts Really Think

Benefits of Using Beehiiv for a Newsletter Banner

Real Beehiiv users share 6 major benefits for newsletter creators. Learn why experts choose this platform for growth and monetization.

As content creators, we’re always looking for the best tools to connect with our audience and grow our reach. Lately, I’ve been seriously considering starting my own newsletter, and after researching various platforms, Beehiiv keeps coming up as a top choice among successful creators and marketers.

But rather than just rely on marketing materials, I wanted to hear from real users who’ve built their newsletters using this platform. So I reached out to thought leaders across different industries with a simple question: “Do you use Beehiiv for your newsletter? If so, I want to know what your experience has been like.”

The responses were overwhelmingly positive, and they revealed six key benefits that make Beehiiv stand out in the crowded newsletter space. Here’s what these experts had to say about their real-world experience with the platform.

1. Media-Grade Publishing Power Without the Complexity

David Quintero, CEO and Marketing Expert at NewswireJet, explained how Beehiiv struck the perfect balance for his team:

“Beehiiv gave our newsletter the publishing power of a media brand without the bloat of enterprise tools. The clean UI, built-in referral system, and granular audience segmentation made it ridiculously easy to grow and monetize fast. But what really stood out? Their post editor strikes a perfect balance between simplicity and flexibility—it’s made for people who want to write and scale. We’ve used it to test content formats, A/B subject lines, and convert subscribers without adding more tools to the stack. I’m David Quintero, CEO of NewswireJet. As a PR and content agency, Beehiiv helped us practice what we preach by turning our own newsletter into a lead-gen asset.”

2. Minimalist Design With Powerful Growth Features

Jock Breitwieser, Digital Marketing Strategist at SocialSellinator, offered an interesting analogy for the platform:

“I like to think of Beehiiv as the IKEA of newsletter tools, minimalist on the surface, but full of clever functionality beneath. We used it to build a curated email series for a startup accelerator client who needed to deliver high-quality content to mentors, investors, and founders on a weekly cadence. The built-in referral tracking helped them grow subscribers by 35+% without running a single paid campaign. At Social Sellinator, we particularly value the clean UX for editing and the smart segmentation that lets us tailor thought leadership for different personas without duplicating effort. It’s not flashy, but Beehiiv makes scaling a newsletter feel frictionless, which in a noisy inbox world is half the battle.”

3. Intuitive Interface With Time-Saving Automation

Alex Cornici, Marketing & PR Coordinator at Magic Hour AI, highlighted the practical benefits that save time and effort:

“I’ve been using Beehiiv for a while now, and it’s pretty solid for managing email newsletters. The user interface is intuitive, which is great because you don’t wanna spend hours figuring out where everything is. What really stands out to me is the automation features which have saved me a ton of time—setting up sequences that trigger based on subscriber actions can really streamline how you engage with your audience. Another thing I appreciate is their analytics tool. It’s super helpful to see how your newsletters are performing in terms of open rates and click-through rates. This kind of data lets you tweak your strategies in real-time. Of course, no service is perfect—you might find it a bit limiting if you’re looking to do highly customized designs that go beyond their templates. But for straightforward, effective email campaigns, Beehiiv does the trick. Overall, if you’re starting out or looking to simplify your email marketing efforts, it’s a reliable choice. Just keep an eye on those analytics to make sure you’re hitting your marks!”

4. Transforms Newsletters Into Brand Utility Systems

Arsen Misakyan, CEO and Founder, Angel City Limo, shared impressive growth results and the platform’s impact on their business:

“We’ve been utilizing Beehiiv for our newsletter aimed at corporate travelers and event planners, and it’s been a game changer. The interface is uncluttered, intuitive, and responsive, which is especially important when you’re publishing on a deadline. One incredibly underrated feature is the included referral system, which helped us increase our list by 23% in the first month alone. Beehiiv is easy to use, much easier than any other tool out there – from segmentation to scheduling, nothing feels clunky but rather smooth and efficient. Their analytics dashboard allows us to quickly notice who’s opening, clicking, and converting, and not get caught up in the data. If you’re creating a newsletter that feels more like a brand utility than a broadcast, Beehiiv could be a good choice. It’s not just a solution – it’s a system that supports thoughtful growth. Whether you’re one person writing a newsletter or growing like we are, it provides structure for what can otherwise feel like an open exercise in self-expression.”

5. Complete Newsletter Growth Engine for Creators

Dipika Jadwani, Sr. Digital Marketing Manager emphasized how Beehiiv goes beyond just being an email tool:

“Yes, I use Beehiiv for my newsletter, and it’s been a game-changer for both growth and workflow. What stands out most is how thoughtfully the platform is designed for creators who care about both audience building and monetization. One of the biggest advantages is the referral program integration—it’s built in, customizable, and helps drive organic list growth without relying solely on paid ads. I’ve seen steady subscriber increases just by leveraging that feature alone. The editor interface is intuitive and fast, making it easy to draft, format, and send emails without getting bogged down in clunky UI. The segmentation tools are robust too, letting me target content to specific audiences based on interest or engagement level, which improves open rates and click-throughs. I also appreciate how Beehiiv supports SEO-friendly web versions of each newsletter. That’s helped me repurpose newsletter content into long-form blog posts and improve discoverability through search. If you’re looking for a platform that combines publishing ease, list growth tools, and real creator-first thinking, Beehiiv is hard to beat. It’s not just another email tool—it’s a newsletter growth engine.”

6. Combines Intuitive Design With Powerful Growth Tools

Rick Slot, Editor in Chief at Slotozilla, highlighted how the platform scales with creators and the unique dual functionality:

“As an editor, I am interested not only in the platform for newsletters, but also in how much it allows you to scale. Everything in Beehiiv is designed for growth: easy import/export of the database, a separate blog page, monetization, integration with Google Analytics. For authors, this is a truly powerful tool. I work with texts every day, and it is important for me that the platform does not distract me. Beehiiv has a very intuitive interface: creating a newsletter takes just a few clicks, and it is also easy to design, because there are simple blocks that can be simply dragged and dropped. For beginners, this is the most convenient option. Plus, it is very convenient that there is both a blog and a newsletter at once – you do not need to maintain everything in different places. This really saves time. This platform also has a referral system – your subscribers can invite new ones and receive bonuses, and you grow. Separately, it is worth mentioning the SEO-tuned blog – what you write will be visible not only in emails, but also in Google. This allows you to quickly reach a new level, because your content starts working outside of the email format.”

Why I’m Choosing Beehiiv for My Newsletter Journey

After hearing from these experienced creators and marketers, and based on more YouTube videos than I care to discuss, the choice becomes clear. What consistently emerges from their testimonials is that Beehiiv is a comprehensive growth platform designed specifically for creators who want to build and monetize their audience effectively.

What stands out to me most and makes me ready to pull the trigger is:

  • Intuitive, distraction-free interface that lets you focus on creating great content
  • Built-in referral system that drives organic growth without additional tools
  • Powerful analytics that provide actionable insights without overwhelming complexity
  • SEO-friendly features that extend your content’s reach beyond email
  • Seamless scaling capabilities that grow with your audience

For someone like me who’s just starting their newsletter (finally!), these benefits address the exact challenges I’m anticipating: growing an audience organically, creating professional content efficiently, and building a sustainable system for long-term success.

Based on these real-world experiences, I’m confident that Beehiiv will provide the foundation I need to launch my newsletter effectively and grow it into something meaningful for my audience. The platform seems to understand what creators actually need: powerful functionality wrapped in an interface that doesn’t get in the way of great storytelling.