Episode 133: Are You Really Prepared for Your Viral Moment with D. Michele Perry

"You can go viral and have 2,000,000 views and it doesn't equate to money. So we have to change the way we think about how we do business"  - Kellee Wynne

Navigating the fast-paced world of social media can be overwhelming, especially when everyone is chasing their viral moment. The idea of reaching millions overnight is tempting, but the truth is that real success often comes from connection, community, and strategy. If you've ever dreamed of being a profitable artist or creative, it's more than just trying to appease the social media algorithm.

In this episode, Kellee teams up with D. Michele Perry to look at what it truly takes to be prepared for your viral moment, sustain it, and build a business that does not rely on the quick-scrolling culture of social media. A big part of the conversation is focused on Substack, a platform both have found valuable for building genuine connections. Unlike other social media tools that seem to focus on algorithms, Substack is all about long-form written content, and a chronological feed which means creators can interact with their audience in a much more organic way. Michele shares her firsthand experience of how this platform not only helped her engage with a wide audience but also allowed her to monetize her work through subscriptions. It’s not just about sharing ideas but building a supportive, paying community.

Michele has gone viral on Instagram multiple times (you've probably seen her incredible 100-Day Projects on Instagram!), but for her, it's not all about the big viewer numbers. Sometimes, simplicity is key. Kellee and Michele both stress the importance of focusing on what truly matters. For them, email lists have been instrumental in staying connected with their audience, no matter how the social media landscape shifts.

Michele expresses that personal connections provide more value than any broad follower count. This is what Michele has built her unique "wonder habit" approach around in her coaching which includes five key concepts: Curiosity, Connection, Courage, Creativity, and Compassion. These principles form the backbone of her creative process and personal journey.

For Kellee and her own coaching program, these strategies are key for artists and creators to use in growing their businesses and focus on what truly resonates with them. When you follow these principles you aren't just building a business, you're fostering a community and culture in your life that will sustain you rather than burn you out.

These conversations are the perfect way to end the year as we reflect on what we loved about the 2024 journey, what we can leave behind this year, and what we can implement in the upcoming year! Don't forget, that when artists succeed, the whole world around them shines a little brighter.