When Social Video meets Journalism , with Sophia Smith Galer

Things We Talk About In This Episode:

• The importance that established news organisations find ways to use social media if they want to engage a young audience

• TikTok has redefined the experience of social media, with short video content, and Instagram Reels and Youtube Shorts have followed suit

• How Sophia found an audience on TikTok (and later on Instagram Reels) by talking to camera about her media stories

• The way we can gain insights into what makes a successful social media post by being a user of the platform

• The importance of constant engagement on social media, both creating and consuming content

• Acknowledging the fear and vulnerability that can come with being authentic and genuine online

• Sophia’s tips for successful TikTok/Reel content: action or engaging content in every second, and lead with your most powerful image/shot/quote)

• Comparing the strengths and drawbacks of the different platforms, especially Reels and TikTok

• When creating Reels content or TikTok content, share that content on both platforms so you’ll meet both audiences

• When it comes to sharing your opinions online, having a sense of purpose goes a long way towards building your confidence

• How Sophia has been promoting her book: reposting user content from her book launch on Instagram, a big thread on Twitter, traditional media appearances, and weekly TikTok videos (interspersed with other content so she doesn’t “spam” her audience)

• The challenges of Internet (and especially social media) censorship with any content relating to sex or sexual health

Links mentioned in this episode (and where to find Sophia):

Editing apps that help you create Reels or TikToks:

• Splice

• Template

• Cap Cut on Apple, and on Google

Here’s where to find and chat with Sophia:

• Sophia on Twitter: @sophiasgaler

• Sophia on TikTok: @sophiasmithgaler

• Sophia's book, Losing It: Sex Education for the 21st Century

Where to find Sara:

• The Insta Retreat  - Currently on Pre Sale

• Sell Your Sh*t - Currently on Pre Sale

• Sara’s website: meandorla.co.uk

• Sara on Instagram: @me_and_orla

• Sara on Twitter: @meandorla

• One to one business coaching with Sara