In this episode, Daniel sits down with Mathew Passy, co-founder of Custom Podcast Solutions, creator of Conntap, and enterprise support and sales for Libsyn Pro.

Daniel and Mathew dive deep into the world of content creation, specifically why podcasting is crucial for creators, in addition to visual platforms like YouTube and TikTok.

Mathew emphasizes the importance of audio-only content for situations where screens aren't viable (e.g., driving, working out, doing dishes) and discusses tools like Repurpose.io that automate the process of converting video content to audio for podcast platforms. They also highlight the necessity of clear intros and outros for audio versions of video content, treating the podcast audience with respect and guiding them.

Show Notes:

(0:00) - Welcome to The Instagram Stories podcast with host Daniel Hill.

(0:45) - Adam Mosseri (Head of Instagram) introduces "Restyle," an AI tool for video editing, enabling changes to context (beach, snow), person's style (marble, porcelain), and color.

(2:20) - Mathew Passy introduces himself as the co-founder of Custom Podcast Solutions (recording, mobile recording, live streaming, studio design/installation), creator of Conntap, and enterprise support/sales for Libsyn Pro.

(3:45) - Discussion on the intimidation of podcasting for content creators focused on other platforms and the importance of "putting yourself where people are".

(4:55) - Tools for automating content repurposing from video to audio, including Repurpose.io.

(6:50) - The importance of including intros and outros when repurposing video content for audio podcasts, to guide the listener.

(7:50) - How podcasting works: Explained through the RSS feed (Real Simple Syndication) and how it enables a direct, unremovable relationship with the audience, contrasting it with social media platform dependency.

(10:00) - Mathew's origin story in podcasting, starting with a New Jersey radio station in 2008, followed by Wall Street Journal Radio, and founding The Podcast Consultant business.

(15:00) - Custom Podcast Solutions' services for designing and installing custom audio/video studios for home and corporate clients, including unique solutions like a "rolling studio" and setups for "social selling" or a "home shopping network".

(18:50) - Introduction to Contap (formerly Podcast Beacons): NFC-enabled devices (wristbands, key fobs, QR codes) for "dynamic microcasting." These allow owners to program a link page or use a "redirect" feature to send people directly to specific content, and the links can be changed dynamically.

(21:00) - The concept of using Conntapfor super fan engagement and tracking, with ideas like NFC-enabled guitar picks for musicians.

(22:50) - Where to find Mathew Passy online, plus Custom Podcast Solutions, and Conntap

(23:10) - Daniel's outro, encouraging listeners to check out the show notes for links and to follow his other show, The Instagram Stories, and his new email newsletter.

Find Mathew Passy online:

Instagram: @mathewpassy

Custom Podcast Solutions: https://custompodcastsolutions.com/

Conntap - https://conntap.com/

Find Daniel:

Instagram: ⁠@danielhillmedia⁠

Podcast: The Instagram Stories - Social Media News

Newsletter: https://subscribepage.io/danielhillmedia

Heston Roberts is a 20-year I.T. professional in Web Development who credits MySpace for his introduction and passion for social media. Today, as co-host of The Social Roundtable live YouTube series, as well as Founder and President of social media marketing agency Social Varsity, he stands as a prominent figure in the chat marketing and chatbot industry, growing his presence as a social media innovator. Heston is known to create customized automated solutions for Instagram, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger and others to provide small businesses and personal brands new ways to "work smarter, not harder".

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The interview features Heston Roberts from Social Varsity. The main focus is on DM (Direct Message) automation, particularly using the tool ManyChat, primarily on Instagram but also touching on its applications for Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, Threads, and TikTok. Heston explains how DM automation works, often triggered by users commenting specific keywords on posts or stories, allowing creators and businesses to deliver links or information directly to the user's inbox.

This method is presented as more effective than directing users to a link in bio, as it meets users where they are and keeps engagement within the platform. He discusses the benefits, such as increased engagement which signals a relationship to the platform's algorithm, potentially increasing content reach.We also cover the rules and best practices associated with DM automation to avoid being flagged for spam by platforms like Instagram.

Key points include not sending DMs immediately upon someone following, and prompting users with a question first before sending a link when the automation is triggered by a post comment (to confirm intent).

Heston warns against setting up automations that trigger for any comment on a post, as this is often perceived negatively by users. He also notes potential issues with automated comment replies, especially for accounts with large followings, as a high volume can look suspicious to the algorithm.

(00:00) Overview of Interview

(01:03) Welcome to the Instagram Stories Podcast

(03:08) Deep Dive into ManyChat

(05:48) Exploring Automation on Different Platforms

(07:44) Engagement Strategies and Best Practices

(19:48) Morning Routine and Thread Scheduling

(20:35) Exploring Threads and Desktop Version

(23:29) The Social Roundtable Show

(25:35) Transition to YouTube and Challenges

Find Heston online at:

Web: Social-Varsity.com

YouTube: ⁨@SocialVarsity⁩

Instagram: @social.varsity

Threads: @social.varsity

Find Daniel on:

Instagram: @danielhillmedia

TikTok: @danielhillmedia

Threads: @danielhillmedia

Thanks for watching!