The Social Media Takeaway - Louise McDonnell

Hosted by Louise McDonnell

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May 2026

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About the show

Welcome to "The Social Media Takeaway," a marketing podcast hosted by Louise McDonnell, tailored for coaches, consultants, and online entrepreneurs eager to harness the power of social media for effective sales and lead generation. Each episode features Louise engaging in insightful conversations with a diverse lineup of guests, all of whom are distinguished experts in their respective fields. Dive deep with us into the ever-evolving world of social media as our guests unravel the best takeaways from their wealth of experience. Whether it's exploring the latest trends, uncovering industry secrets, or getting a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the digital marketing world, "The Social Media Takeaway" is your go-to resource. Listeners can expect a treasure trove of actionable advice, practical tips, and innovative strategies designed to amplify your online presence and boost your business. With Louise's engaging interview style and her guests' expert insights, this podcast is an invaluable tool for anyone looking to make a significant impact in the digital arena. Tune in to "The Social Media Takeaway" and transform your social media endeavors into a successful journey!

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May 27, 2026Episode 7931 min

How to Make Better Videos Without Overthinking It

One thing I see all the time with business owners is this.They know video matters.But they still avoid it.In this episode, Michelle and I talk about why so many business owners struggle with video content and what really helps people become more comfortable showing up online.I shared that I’ve worked with lots of businesses over the years where people would nearly rather stick a pin in their eye than record themselves on video. And honestly, I think many people will relate to that feeling.Michelle explains why the video is not really about confidence or perfection. It’s about presence, connection, and learning how to communicate naturally in a way that builds trust.We also talked about how online content is changing, why authentic content matters more than ever, and why simple videos often perform better than overly polished ones.You’ll also learn:✅ Why confidence usually comes after you start ✅ How to stop overthinking your videos✅ Why the first few seconds of a video matter so much✅ Simple ways to structure short-form video content ✅ Why imperfect content can build more trust✅ How AI is changing online content and audience trust✅ Why video views are not the metric that matters mostIf video is something you’ve been avoiding or overcomplicating, this episode will help you approach it in a much simpler and more realistic way.Also, if you want to use video to grow your business.. but don’t know what to say?Michelle Kopper’s The Video Boost Blueprint shares a simple 3-step framework to help you create short, powerful videos that connect, resonate, and help your best clients engage.👉 Grab the free The Video Boost Blueprint here.Connect with Michelle Kopper on LinkedInIf you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to my podcast because more like this is on the way!If you'd like to book a call to see how I can support you head over to my website here. www.sellonsocialmedia.academy/hello👉 WHAT'S NEW: I've built an AI-powered Digital Marketing Platform, SellOn.Social. This is not a training program. It's an AI platform that helps you stand out on social media and turn followers into real enquiries and paying clients.And please connect on social media and let me know what you thought of this episode!LinkedInInstagramFacebookFacebook Group

April 8, 2026Episode 7822 min

From Busy to Strategic: Systems That Free Up Your Time

In this episode I’m joined by Kathi Burns, a strategic adviser and productivity expert, founder of Organized & Energized, as well as 2-times best selling author. In this episode, Kathi reveals why so many business owners get stuck “in the muck” and what to do about it.Kathi shares how disorganisation, lack of systems, and poor delegation are quietly costing entrepreneurs time, money, and energy. More importantly, she explains how simple systems can give you back control, free up hours every week, and help you focus on what actually grows your business.You’ll also learn:✅ Why busy doesn’t mean productive✅ How entrepreneurs lose 4 hours a week without realising it✅ What it means to work below your pay grade✅ Where to start if you’re stuck in the weeds✅ How systems can give you back time and clarityIf you feel like you’re constantly busy but not actually moving forward, this episode will hit home.Grab Kathi’s little treat, her free Paper Flow Blueprint that you can download to get started.It gives you a clear starting point if you’re feeling overwhelmed by paperwork or just don’t have a system that works.Simple. Useful. And very easy to implement.Also, Kathi is hosting a free Paper Flow Masterclass next Tuesday, April 14th at 12 PM PT/8 PM Dublin. She'll show you how to build frictionless systems, reclaim your executive bandwidth, and finally stop drowning in paper piles.If you're a professional who wants to simplify your work life and find any document in 30 seconds or less… this one's for you.Join here!📩 Connect with Kathi Burns on LinkedInIf you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to my podcast because more like this is on the way!If you'd like to book a call to see how I can support you head over to my website here. www.sellonsocialmedia.academy/hello👉 WHAT'S NEW: I've built an AI-powered Digital Marketing Platform, SellOn.Social. This is not a training program. It's an AI platform that helps you stand out on social media and turn followers into real enquiries and paying clients.And please connect on social media and let me know what you thought of this episode!LinkedInInstagramFacebookFacebook Group

January 21, 2026Episode 7724 min

Once-in-a-Generation Opportunities, Wealth and Thinking Like an Investor

In this episode I’m joined by Lynn Kitchen, a financial expert with nearly 40 years of experience helping individuals, entrepreneurs and families build sustainable wealth and long term confidence with money.Lynn has built and sold two investment advisory firms, taught thousands how to invest, and now focuses on helping people stop avoiding money conversations and start taking real ownership of their financial future.We talk about why money feels so emotional for so many business owners, how our upbringing shapes our financial behaviour, and why handing everything over to someone else isn’t the same as having a plan.If you’re running a business, constantly reinvesting and hoping everything will “work out later”, this conversation will challenge how you think about wealth, risk, and responsibility.One powerful idea from Lynn runs through this episode: we’re living through once-in-a-generation technological opportunities. But the real shift happens when you stop being just a consumer and start becoming an informed participant. It starts with getting educated.Here’s what we cover:Why so many people have a stressful relationship with moneyHow your upbringing shapes your risk toleranceWhy entrepreneurs face a completely different money realityThe importance of understanding what you own and whyWhy uncertainty often creates the biggest opportunitiesINVITATION: Lynn's Wealth Builders Academy - MONEY TALKS! - Masterclass REPLAY IS AVAILABLE!Watch it in your own time and get a clearer sense of what’s ahead, without pressure or commitment.▶️ Watch Day 1 Here.▶️ Watch Day 2 Here.📩 Connect with Lynn Kitchen on LinkedIn.If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to my podcast because more like this is on the way!If you'd like to book a call to see how I can support you head over to my website here. www.sellonsocialmedia.academy/hello👉 WHAT'S NEW: I've built an AI-powered Digital Marketing Platform, SellOn.Social. This is not a training program. It's an AI platform that helps you stand out on social media and turn followers into real enquiries and paying clients.And please connect on social media and let me know what you thought of this episode!LinkedInInstagramFacebookFacebook Group

January 7, 2026Episode 7628 min

How To Start a Business With No Money in 2026 with Estie Starr

If building a business or finally acting on that idea has been on your list, this week’s episode is one not to be missed.I’m joined by Estie Starr, an award-winning strategist, founder of Strand Consulting, and a woman who built a multi seven-figure business without spending a cent on ads… all while raising five children.In this episode, Estie shares how any idea can be turned into profit using her five-step MONEY framework.If you’ve got a business idea but aren’t sure if it’ll work, or you feel stuck in strategy mode with nothing to show for it, this episode will give you the push (and process) to just start.Here’s what we cover:The biggest mistake people make when starting a businessWhy selling to your inner circle first makes perfect senseThe MONEY framework: five simple steps to build a business from scratchWhy you should stop jumping straight into marketing…stick with the process.How to build trust and sell without ever being salesyWhat real growth looks like (and why it’s not “launching online and going viral”)🎁 3-Day Marketing Success Challenge for free. It’s normally a paid program so grab it while it's free here!If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to my podcast because more like this is on the way!If you'd like to book a call to see how I can support you head over to my website here. www.sellonsocialmedia.academy/hello👉 WHAT'S NEW: I've built an AI-powered Digital Marketing Platform, SellOn.Social. This is not a training program. It's an AI platform that helps you stand out on social media and turn followers into real enquiries and paying clients.And please connect on social media and let me know what you thought of this episode!LinkedInInstagramFacebookFacebook Group

December 17, 2025Episode 7524 min

Plan 2026: The One-Page Strategy with Laura Posey

In this episode of The Social Media Takeaway, I’m joined by Laura Posey, internationally recognised speaker, author, and consultant. She's known as the simple planning specialist and she has a unique ability to make the complex. Simple and easy to get done. We chat about why so many business owners feel flat out busy but still unclear, and how a one-page plan can change that.If you're a coach, consultant or running a service-based business and you’re done with spinning wheels, this one's for you.You’ll learn:✅ What really happens when you do not plan✅ Why lifestyle design should guide business decisions✅ How one page planning creates clarity and direction✅ How to turn goals into projects and actual daily tasks✅ Why saying no is just as important as saying yes📩 Connect with Laura on Linkedin!🎁 Grab Laura’s Free Gift: Daily Success Checklist on her websiteIf you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to my podcast because more like this is on the way!If you'd like to book a call to see how I can support you head over to my website here. www.sellonsocialmedia.academy/hello👉 WHAT'S NEW: I've built an AI-powered Digital Marketing Platform, SellOn.Social. This is not a training program. It's an AI platform that helps you stand out on social media and turn followers into real enquiries and paying clients.And please connect on social media and let me know what you thought of this episode!LinkedInInstagramFacebookFacebook Group

December 3, 2025Episode 7439 min

Stop Guessing: How to Build a Predictable Social Media Sales Machine

In this episode, I was delighted to be interviewed by Dan O’Donoghue. Dan is a business development specialist with over 20 years experience in helping businesses grow sustainably and strategically.We talked about my journey, the fire that was lit in me when a teacher said “I wasn’t as smart as my friends”, and how that same determination is what drives me now.We talked about my passion… using traditional marketing concepts to drive business growth on social media. You’ll hear:Why social media isn’t just about awarenessWhy content creators and business owners have very different goalsThe one thing you need to get right before posting anything on social mediaWhy “just using AI” isn’t enoughThe difference between posting and having a systemWhy clarity always comes before confidenceJoin Louise LIVE on her upcoming 2026 Social Selling Masterclass and discover how to use social media to generate consistent leads and sales in 2026Date: Wednesday, 10th December 2025Time: 3:00 PM ET (New York) / 8:00 PM GMT (Dublin/London)SAVE YOUR SEAT HERE!If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to my podcast because more like this is on the way!If you'd like to book a call to see how I can support you head over to my website here. www.sellonsocialmedia.academy/hello👉 WHAT'S NEW: I've built an AI-powered Digital Marketing Platform, SellOn.Social. This is not a training program. It's an AI platform that helps you stand out on social media and turn followers into real enquiries and paying clients.And please connect on social media and let me know what you thought of this episode!LinkedInInstagramFacebookFacebook Group

November 12, 2025Episode 7334 min

Maximising LinkedIn Visibility in 15 Minutes a Day with Ashley Leeds

In this episode of The Social Media Takeaway, I spoke with Ashley Leeds, known as “The 15-Minute Guy”, who helps business owners use LinkedIn to build genuine visibility without spending hours online. Ashley shared how he went from other fields into becoming a LinkedIn coach helping professionals show up confidently and consistently.If you’re struggling to post on LinkedIn, unsure what to share, or feel it takes too much time, this episode will give you a simple and practical approach to building your brand the right way.You’ll learn:✅ Why consistency beats perfection on LinkedIn✅ How to create engaging posts that reflect who you are✅ Why overthinking stops people from showing up✅ The power of commenting and engagement in building trust✅ How to manage time and still stay visible onlineConnect with Ashley on LinkedIn 🎁 Check out Ashley’s free gift: 15-Minute LinkedIn Makeover ChecklistIf you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to my podcast because more like this is on the way!If you'd like to book a call to see how I can support you head over to my website here. www.sellonsocialmedia.academy/hello👉 WHAT'S NEW: I've built an AI-powered Digital Marketing Platform, SellOn.Social. This is not a training program. It's an AI platform that helps you stand out on social media and turn followers into real enquiries and paying clients.And please connect on social media and let me know what you thought of this episode!LinkedInInstagramFacebookFacebook Group

October 29, 2025Episode 7224 min

How to get FREE Publicity for your Business with Jill Lublin

In this episode of The Social Media Takeaway, I chatted with Jill Lublin, international speaker, best-selling author, and publicity strategist who has helped thousands of entrepreneurs and business owners worldwide. We dive into how small business owners can use publicity to build visibility, credibility, and trust...without spending big on ads.If you’re a coach, consultant, or small business owner wanting to attract more clients through authentic visibility, this one’s for you.You’ll learn:✅ Why publicity outshines paid ads✅ How to land media coverage from day one✅ The 3 keys to boosting visibility✅ How kindness fuels profit✅ Why consistency builds lasting trustSHOW CHAPTERS0:00 Publicity Starts With One Simple Pitch0:38 Meet Jill Lublin: Author, PR and Media Expert1:27 Understanding Gorilla Publicity and the Broad Scope of Publicity4:49 Crafting Your Message and Creative Strategies for Media Attention7:27 Leveraging Special Days and Events12:50 Planning and Executing Your PR Strategy21:50 Final Takeaway and Free Gift from Jill💌 Connect with Jill on LinkedIn 🎁 FREE GIFT from JillIf you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to my podcast because more like this is on the way!If you'd like to book a call to see how I can support you head over to my website here. www.sellonsocialmedia.academy/hello👉 WHAT'S NEW: I've built an AI-powered Digital Marketing Platform, SellOn.Social. This is not a training program. It's an AI platform that helps you stand out on social media and turn followers into real enquiries and paying clients.And please connect on social media and let me know what you thought of this episode!LinkedInInstagramFacebookFacebook Group

October 15, 2025Episode 7131 min

5 Ways to Transform Sales Conversations with Niraj Kapur

In this episode of The Social Media Takeaway, I had the pleasure of chatting with Niraj Kaur, bestselling author of Everybody Works In Sales. Niraj shares his journey from struggling in sales to becoming a top performer, highlighting the power of self-development, the right mindset, and practical strategies for handling objections and ghosting. We also dive into how to use LinkedIn effectively while staying authentic.If you’re a coach, consultant, or service-based entrepreneur who wants to feel more confident selling your offers, this episode is for you.You’ll learn:✅ Why mindset and habits are the foundation of sales success✅ How to reframe “selling” as helping to overcome fear✅ Smart ways to handle objections and turn pushback into opportunities ✅ Practical strategies for following up and dealing with ghosting ✅ How to use LinkedIn to build genuine connections and grow your businessSHOW CHAPTERS0:00 Forget About Selling For One Second...0:38 Introduction and Guest Welcome1:36 The Journey to Sales Mastery2:11 Mindset and Attitude in Sales3:41 The Importance of Coaching and Continuous Learning6:21 Challenges and Realities of Sales7:32 Overcoming Sales Fears and Building Good Habits11:10 Handling Objections and Client Follow-ups13:08 Effective Sales Conversations13:59 The Art of Asking Questions15:49 Dealing with Client Ghosting18:50 Effective Communication on LinkedIn21:01 The Power of Personal Stories24:50 The Reality of Social Media Success25:52 Using AI in Business29:10 Final TakeawaysConnect with NirajLinkedInIf you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to my podcast because more like this is on the way!If you'd like to book a call to see how I can support you head over to my website here. www.sellonsocialmedia.academy/hello👉 WHAT'S NEW: I've built an AI-powered Digital Marketing Platform, SellOn.Social. This is not a training program. It's an AI platform that helps you stand out on social media and turn followers into real enquiries and paying clients.And please connect on social media and let me know what you thought of this episode!LinkedInInstagramFacebookFacebook Group

September 10, 2025Episode 7036 min

AI is Disrupting Marketing - Here’s how coaches and consultants must adapt on social media

This week, I’m doing something a bit different…I’m handing the mic to my copywriter, Katy Prodromou, who’s interviewing me for a change. Shedding light on the biggest shifts I’ve ever seen in the online space and why coaches and consultants must pay attention.AI isn’t just changing how we create content. It’s changing everything. And if you’re still relying on random posting and hoping for leads, you’re already falling behind.In this episode, I share exactly how I’m helping coaches and consultants future-proof their business with my 5-step system, a structure that works with AI to make your marketing faster, smarter, and more effective.What you’ll take away:Why AI is disrupting marketing – and what to do before you get left behindThe difference between posting content and having a real strategyHow I use AI at every stage of my system (not just for content!)What most people get wrong in their social media bios and contentWhy your email list is still your most powerful business assetA look behind the scenes at my 5-step social selling systemHow the brand-new assessment will help you spot your biggest lead gen gapsSHOW CHAPTERS00:00 How AI Will Affect Your Work01:09 The Big Shift: AI's Impact on Coaches and Consultants01:41 Before and After AI05:55 AI's Role in Social Media Marketing07:55 The System to Stand Out as a Coach or Consultant10:37 Why Doing More Won’t Fix Broken Marketing11:19 Common Mistakes in Social Media Strategy16:57 Leveraging AI for Business Success23:15 The Five-Step System for Success22:48 Upcoming Free Workshop and Final ThoughtsWant to see this system in action?I’m hosting a free, live masterclass on 24th September where I’ll walk you through it all plus you’ll get a digital copy of my 2025 Content Planner and take my brand-new assessment live with me.👉 SAVE YOUR SEAT HEREIf you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to my podcast because more like this is on the way!If you'd like to book a call to see how I can support you head over to my website here. www.sellonsocialmedia.academy/hello👉 WHAT'S NEW: I've built an AI-powered Digital Marketing Platform, SellOn.Social. This is not a training program. It's an AI platform that helps you stand out on social media and turn followers into real enquiries and paying clients.And please connect on social media and let me know what you thought of this episode!LinkedInInstagramFacebookFacebook Group