The Power of Video: Why Live Video & Reels Are Non-Negotiable for Growing Your Business
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Today we’re diving into a huge topic that is only getting bigger:
🔥 Video.
🔥 Reels.
🔥 TikToks.
🔥 Live streams.
And—spoiler alert—if you want to build trust, visibility, and growth online…
you need video in your strategy.
Let’s break down how to make it simple, sustainable, and actually fun.
Why Video Matters More Than Ever
Between Instagram’s shift toward prioritizing Reels, TikTok’s explosion, Facebook Lives, Pinterest Idea Pins, and even YouTube Shorts… one thing is clear:
Video isn’t coming. Video is HERE.
And it’s the fastest way to build what we talk about all the time:
✨ Know
✨ Like
✨ Trust
Live video and short-form video allow people to see:
- your personality
- your quirks
- your energy
- your lifestyle
- your values
- your expertise
- your relatability
People don’t just want polished—
they want real.
And nothing builds connection faster than video.
Reels & TikTok: Start With ONE Platform
Let’s talk short-form video first.
If you’re not on Instagram Reels or TikTok yet, pick ONE and commit to starting there.
You don’t need to dance.
You don’t need to lip-sync.
You don’t need to be fancy.
You just need to:
✔️ show up
✔️ teach something
✔️ entertain
✔️ inspire
✔️ share your story
✔️ be YOU
Quick Tips for Getting Started
- Save audios that inspire you (this becomes your idea bank).
- Add a simple call to action in your caption.
- Use 4–5 hashtags—quality over quantity.
- Create inside the native app when possible (Instagram likes this).
- Keep it short, punchy, and valuable.
And remember: Done is better than perfect.
(Seriously—perfection is the #1 creativity killer.)
How I Batch My Reels in Under an Hour
One of my most-asked questions is:
“How do you stay consistent with content while teaching full-time?”
Easy. I batch.
Here’s how I recently created 8–10 reels in under an hour:
- Grabbed a tote bag
- Threw in: 3 shirts, my Mickey ears, my Thrive products, a notebook, and my tripod
- Headed outside for great lighting
- Opened my Saved Reels for inspiration
- Pressed record again and again
Now, all those reels sit in drafts, ready to post each day.
Batching = consistency without burnout.
Let’s Talk Live Video (YES, You Can!)
Live video is still one of the best ways to connect with your audience in real time.
Even if you feel awkward.
Even if nobody shows up live.
Even if you don’t think you’re “ready.”
(You are.)
Why Live Video Works
- It shows your real personality
- It creates instant trust
- Facebook still prioritizes live content
- You can repurpose live videos in 10+ ways
- It positions you as a leader
Speaking of repurposing:
You can turn one live video into…
✔️ a YouTube video
✔️ an IGTV
✔️ a Reel
✔️ an email
✔️ a blog post
✔️ multiple quote graphics
✔️ a story series
✔️ a training inside your team group
One video → tons of content.
What to Talk About on Live Video
This is where people get stuck, but trust me—once you start, ideas flow like crazy.
Use these categories to brainstorm:
✨ Teach Something
- “How to start eating cleaner on a budget”
- “3 swaps to remove hidden sugar”
- “My top 5 habits for more energy”
✨ Share a Journey
People LOVE a good transformation—physical, mental, financial, emotional, or lifestyle.
✨ Review Something
- A book
- A podcast episode
- A product you love
- A grocery haul
(Yes, my Whole Foods haul live is always a hit.)
✨ Share Tips
- Organization hacks
- Meal prep
- Self-care rituals
- Business tools
- Morning routines
✨ Share a Story
If something funny, wild, inspiring, or relatable happened—talk about it!
✨ Talk About Your Personal Development
You should never run out of live video ideas if you are reading and learning daily.
You learn → you teach → you build authority.
How to Show Up Confidently on Camera
Let’s be real:
It’s NORMAL to feel awkward the first few videos.
But here’s what helps:
1. BU x 2
Be YOU… but a little more energetic.
Video flattens energy, so exaggerate your excitement slightly.
2. Pick your highest-energy time of day
Do NOT go live when you’re exhausted.
People feel your energy instantly.
3. Have 3–5 bullet points
Don’t script. Don’t wing it.
Have a flow.
4. Keep it simple
Good lighting
Clean space
Clear title
Quick intro
Clear call to action
5. Promote before you go live
Use stories.
Add countdowns.
Build anticipation.
(I’m working on this one too!)
But What If Nobody Shows Up Live?
It does not matter.
Really.
Most people watch the replay anyway, AND your live video has a much longer shelf life than you think.
The right people will see it.
The right people will hear your message.
The right people will connect with you.
Your job is simply to show up.
Your Challenge: Record ONE Video This Week
One reel OR one live video.
That’s it.
Send me the link so I can cheer you on and boost the algorithm for you!
Seriously—tag me, DM me, or drop it in the community. I would LOVE to support you.
You’re not meant to grow your business alone.
Let’s Connect!
Come hang out with me:
💖 Instagram: @lindsaydollinger
💖 Website: http://www.LindsayDollinger.com
💖 Freebies: Daily task checklist, personal development book list, affirmations, and more
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Thank you for showing up.
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You’ve got this.
Talk soon, friend! 💛