EP 67 - tikTok ban, social media predictions, and 2025 Updates with angela shae
Hi again! Today, I’m hanging out with Angela Shae of Social Templates to break down all the latest social media changes—from TikTok’s brief U.S. disappearance to Instagram’s newest features. We’re sharing all the tips on diversifying your presence. Plus, Angela spills on personal branding tricks and staying nimble in this fast-paced digital world. If you want a quick rundown on rocking socials in 2025, this chat is for you.
Introduction: The Dynamic World of Social Media
Welcome back to Summer School! This episode was actually re-recorded because, well, social media platforms can change at the drop of a hat. It’s a little wild out there, but that’s also what makes it so exciting!
The Great TikTok Saga
Let’s start with the rollercoaster weekend when TikTok mysteriously disappeared from the U.S. app stores. Creators were freaking out—understandably—only to have it pop back up about 15 hours later. Regardless of the legal details, it reminded us that no single platform is guaranteed forever. If you rely solely on one place for your audience, you’re taking a risk. Think of it as your sign to diversify and branch out a little!
Embracing Instagram’s New Features
Meanwhile, Instagram’s been busy rolling out all sorts of new options. We’ve got vertical feeds, longer videos, and their own video-editing app—basically a rival to CapCut. Translation? Instagram wants you to create more in-depth, TikTok-style content without leaving their platform. If you’re into video, it’s the perfect time to experiment and see what sticks.
Trial Reels: Testing the Water
One of my favorite new features is Trial Reels, which let you share your content exclusively with folks who *don’t* already follow you. It’s a game-changer for testing the waters with new audiences. If you’ve got an older reel that performed well, you could repurpose it here and reach a whole new group of people—without messing up your existing feed vibe.
The Rise of Comfort Creators
We’re also seeing this fun trend of “comfort creators”—people whose content feels like a cozy, genuine hangout session. No over-polished feeds or forced aesthetics here. It’s about building real community and trust, which can honestly feel like a breath of fresh air in our perfectly curated world.
Personal Branding: Your 2025 Focus
On that note, let’s talk personal branding. Now more than ever, your audience wants to see *you*. They care about your story, your voice, and what makes you stand out. So if you’ve been hesitant to share behind-the-scenes moments or personal insights, think again! Letting people into your world can lead to stronger engagement and a fanbase that’s truly invested in what you do.
Pro Tips for Navigating the Updates
1. Embrace Change: Keep your apps updated and be open to trying new features. Don’t be afraid to experiment—you never know which tool will click for you.
2. Utilize Trial Reels: Revisit older content that killed it before, and see if it can catch a new audience’s attention.
3. Leverage Stories: Let your Stories fully disappear before posting something intriguing, so your followers have to stop and check it out.
4. Be Real: Show your personality, your quirks, and your processes. This is how you build that genuine connection everyone’s craving.
Closing Thoughts: Adaptability is Key
As platforms keep evolving, our best bet is to stay nimble and ready for anything. Try out the new features, don’t be afraid to pivot, and focus on that personal brand magic that sets you apart. With the right mindset (and a little creativity), these changes can open up all sorts of new opportunities.
Thanks for hanging out with me while we unpack all these social media updates. If you have questions or want to share how you’re adapting, I’d love to hear from you! Until next time, keep creating, stay flexible, and have fun out there.
—Summer Grace
Connect with Angela:
Get her instagram templates here, and use code SUMMER for your 1st month free!
Instagram: @socialtemplates.co
Connect with Me:
Subscribe to our emails for updates on all things Summer School!
Instagram: @summergrace.photo @the_summerschool
Shop My Products:
Become a Member of Summer School
My Summer Grace x G-Presets (discount code: SUMMERSCHOOL)
