How To Create Instagram Reels That Grow Your Email List & Income [Ep. 107]

*A big thanks to Travelpayouts for sponsoring this episode on IG Reels growth hacks

Want to learn how to create Instagram Reels that grow your email list and income?

Well, you’re in luck, as in this episode of The Profitable Travel Blogger Podcast, we’ll be going over how to use IG Reels strategically to grow your business!

Our guest for the episode is viral Reels creator Raimee Iacofano, who has strategically grown her Instagram account to over 291,000 followers.

Not only that, but she’s created a repeatable formula for using Instagram Reels that leads to email subscribers and income. Her Reels have gotten her 20k email subscribers, thousands in digital product sales, and deals with brands and tourism boards like Adobe, American Airlines, Japan Tourism, and more.

Today, she’ll be sharing her best tips to help you do the same.

By the end of this episode, you’ll understand:

• How to increase Instagram Reels views, followers & conversions
• Instagram Reels viral tricks for getting traction on your content
• How to create hooks for Instagram Reels that stop people in their scroll
• Advice for brainstorming Reels content that increases engagement
• Hacks for streamlining your Reels creation process
• And more!

Bonus: Raimee will also share specific examples and content ideas for Instagram Reels that can help you grow your account and your blogging business!

How To Create Instagram Reels That Grow Your Email List & Income [Podcast Episode Audio]

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Free Resources To Help You Grow On Instagram

Instagram Traffic Guide from Travelpayouts

If you’re ready to turn your Instagram Reels into a traffic-driving machine for your blog, then here is something you won’t want to miss.

My friends at Travelpayouts have published an insightful guide on how to use Instagram to drive traffic to your site.

It goes beyond just creating Reels—covering strategies like optimizing your bio, crafting compelling captions, and using call-to-action links effectively.

Whether you’re new to Instagram or want to refine your current approach, this guide offers practical tips to help you turn casual followers into loyal blog readers.

➡️ Click here to get Travelpayouts’ Instagram traffic guide!

Free Blogging Resources + Instagram Reels Cheat Sheet

To help you really jumpstart your blogging success, I’ve added 75+ blogging resources like printables, video tutorials, and workbooks into a FREE resource library for travel bloggers.

This includes an Instagram Reels Cheat Sheet based on this episode.

These resources are meant to help you grow your traffic, community, and income faster and with less overwhelm!

See Success With Instagram Reels With These Helpful Tools:

ManyChat. An automation tool lets you send freebies, blog posts, and other links via Instagram DMs when someone comments a specific word or phrase on your post.

CapCut & InShot. User-friendly mobile video editors with simple tools for trimming clips, adding text, and enhancing Reels with transitions and effects.

VN Video Editor. A free, feature-rich editing app that offers more control over cuts, layers, and audio, making it great for polished Reels.

Later. A social media scheduling tool that lets you plan, auto-publish, and analyze Instagram Reels, posts, and Stories, helping you stay consistent without posting in real time.

Instagram Reels Tips & Tricks [Episode Transcript]

The following is a summary of the podcast episode sharing how to grow on Instagram Reels. It is transcribed as best as possible, with paraphrasing included. For the full strategy, make sure to listen to the audio or video version of the podcast above.

Instagram Reels are one of the best free tools bloggers can use to connect with their audience and grow their business.

According to Buffer, Instagram Reels see 36% more reach than other post types, with over 200 Billion reels viewed each day across Instagram and Facebook.

But how do you create Instagram Reels that truly resonate and drive results?

That is exactly what our guest, Raimee Iacofano of @RaimeeTravel, will be breaking down for us.

Raimee has been able to grow her following by over 280k in less than 2.5 years and secure brand deals with top brands and tourism boards like Google, Microsoft, American Airlines, Japan Tourism, Ireland Tourism, and more!

She’s also successfully used IG Reels to increase her email list to over 20k in the last 6 months as well as sell thousands in digital products.

And today she’ll be sharing her best tips to help you do the same.

🎉 Also, don’t forget to grab access to my FREE Travel Blogger Resource Library. Get access to 75+ resources that can help turn your blog into a profitable business—including an Instagram Reels Cheat Sheet based on today’s episode!

1) Thank you so much for taking the time to share your tips! To start, can you share more about yourself, your business, and how you got into Instagram Reels?

Hey, I’m Raimee! I started out in corporate marketing, but like many, I felt stuck in a job I didn’t love. I was obsessed with travel blogs, trying to figure out how to break into the travel industry.

I met Nomadic Matt at an event and basically begged him to hire me. It took six months of following up, but I eventually landed a part-time role, which later became full-time. I spent four years on his team, learning the ins and outs of the industry.

At the time, I was posting travel photos on Instagram, but they never really took off. Everything changed when video became the dominant format. I had always loved video editing (even as a kid!), so when Reels and TikTok started exploding, I leaned into it.

In April 2022, I finally saw real growth, and within a few months, my content took off. Now, content creation is my full-time business. I share smart travel tips through Instagram and TikTok, and I also co-run a talent management agency that helps creators land brand deals.

2) What makes Instagram Reels such a powerful tool for travel bloggers?

The benefits of Instagram Reels are endless, and they really are one of the best tools for growth right now. They consistently get more reach than static posts, making them a powerful way to expand your audience.

Some people think they missed the boat by not starting sooner, but that’s not true—I’ve seen creators go from 0 to 80,000 followers in just a few months with the right strategy.

And the best part?

You don’t need to start from scratch. My Instagram account existed for years before Reels took off, and I was still able to grow.

3) Beyond increasing visibility, how can bloggers use Reels to grow their email lists, collaborations, or income?

Growing your email list with Reels

One of my favorite strategies is using ManyChat to automate lead generation. Instead of relying on a link in bio (which most people won’t click), I set up a system where viewers comment a specific word (like #Guide or #POINTSGUIDE) and instantly receive a free download via DM.

Landing brand collaborations

Reels give instant proof of engagement, which is exactly what brands look for when choosing influencers to work with. They want to see high-performing, shareable content, and Reels provide that better than static posts.

If you can create engaging video content that resonates with your audience, you’ll be in a stronger position to pitch brands or attract sponsorship opportunities.

🎥 Speaking of, here is a pitch template for pitching sponsors in case you’re interested in this:

Increasing your income with Reels

Beyond brand deals, Reels can also drive income through affiliate marketing, sponsored content, and digital product sales.

Whether you’re promoting a travel course, selling presets, or sharing an itinerary with affiliate links, Reels keep your audience engaged and taking action, leading to more conversions.

The key is offering real value—whether it’s travel tips, destination guides, or behind-the-scenes insights—so your audience keeps coming back for more.

4) How do you come up with ideas for Instagram Reels?

Here are my top tips for brainstorming ideas that I think will do well on IG Reels:

Start with your own travel struggles

My best Reel ideas come from my own experiences and challenges as a traveler. If I struggled with something—like figuring out the best way to book cheap flights or understanding visa requirements—chances are, others have the same problem.

Even the most basic travel tips can perform well because there’s always someone who needs that information for the first time.

For example, one of my most viral Reels was about using Google Flights’ Explore feature. To me, it felt like common knowledge, but it turned out to be hugely helpful for my audience. So, don’t overthink it—simple, practical tips work!

Keep a running list of ideas

I use the Notes app on my phone to jot down Reel ideas whenever inspiration strikes. Whether I’m actively planning a trip or just thinking about travel, I always have ideas popping up.

Keeping a list ensures that when it’s time to create, I don’t have to start from scratch—I can just scroll through my notes and pick one.

Structure reels to drive engagement

Once I have an idea, I structure the Reel in a way that encourages action (comments, shares, saves). I follow this formula:

• Hook. Grab attention within the first 3 seconds of your video with a compelling statement or question.
• Introduction. Give people insight into what your account is about and why they should follow you.
• Value. Deliver the main content in a concise, engaging way and make sure it is useful.
• Call-to-action (CTA). Get people to comment or take action, like “Comment #Checklist for my free travel checklist!”

By combining relatable problems, quick solutions, and an easy way for people to engage, I create Reels that not only get views but also grow my audience and email list. If you’re curious how to go viral on Instagram Reels, the above formula can really help.

5) What are the key elements of a successful Reel that keep viewers engaged from start to finish?

Hook viewers in the first 3 seconds

People scroll fast, so your opening is everything. A strong hook can be:

• A bold statement (“Stop making this travel mistake!”)
• A question (“Did you know you can get free hotel upgrades?”)
• An eye-catching visual (stunning landscape, fast movement, or an unexpected shot)

The goal is to stop the scroll and make people want to watch more, so make sure to do at least one of the above—or all three!

Keep it visually engaging

To hold attention, your Reel should change visuals every 1.5-3 seconds. This can be done by:

• Using a mix of clips—close-ups, wide shots, and different angles
• Adding text on screen so viewers can follow along without sound
• Using pop-up graphics to highlight key points

Even if you’re just talking to the camera, zooming in/out or cutting between angles makes it feel more dynamic.

Make the content easy to follow

The best-performing Reels deliver value quickly and in a structured way.

As mentioned above, I follow this format:

• Hook (grab attention)
• Introduction (brief context or credibility)
• Main Content (the tip, story, or insight)
• Call to Action (CTA) (tell viewers what to do next, like grab your opt-in freebie or purchase a digital product)

For example: “Comment #Guide, and I’ll send you my free checklist!” or “Follow for more smart travel tips!”

🎥 By the way, if you’re stuck on what opt-in freebie to promote in your Reels, this video can help:

6) When it comes to adding music to Instagram Reels, is trending audio important?

Not necessarily! Original content is king. While trending audio can help in some cases, Instagram and TikTok are now prioritizing original voiceovers and storytelling over viral sounds.

Here’s how I approach it:

• For educational or storytelling Reels → I use my own voiceover or talk to the camera.
• For short, visual Reels → I sometimes use trending audio in the background.

In short, your content matters more than the sound. Focus on valuable, engaging storytelling, and you won’t need to rely on trends to grow.

7) Many creators are curious about how to create viral Reels on Instagram. Do you have an example of a Reel that performed well in terms of virality and results?

One of the best examples of a high-performing Reel comes from my friend @AmandaMoniqueBrown. She was feeling stuck at a growth plateau and wanted to gain more followers.

I suggested a simple tweak: add a quick introduction line after the hook to establish credibility.

She created a Reel about common mistakes travelers make in the Greek Islands, starting with a strong hook: “Don’t make this mistake in Greece!”

Then, she followed up with: “Hey, I’m Amanda, and I share detailed, useful travel tips!”

From there, she delivered value quickly, listing must-know mistakes and how to avoid them. The call to action encouraged people to follow for more travel tips.

The results?

• 18 million views
• 100,000+ new followers from a single Reel
• High engagement (shares, saves, and comments)

The reason this worked so well was because the strong hook grabbed attention, while the quick intro built credibility and turned viewers into followers. Reels with an introduction—whether spoken or as text in the caption—consistently perform better by increasing engagement and conversions.

8) When planning out a Reel, do you start with the hook or the call to action first?

Start with the goal in mind

Before anything else, I ask myself: What is the purpose of this Reel?

Do I want to:

• Get more followers?
• Drive email sign-ups?
• Increase engagement?

The answer shapes everything else—especially the hook and call to action (CTA).

Hook vs. CTA

If my goal is to promote a digital product or freebie, I start with the CTA and reverse-engineer the Reel from there. For example, if I want people to download my pre-trip checklist, I craft a Reel that naturally leads to that offer.

If my goal is to grow my audience, I focus on the hook first, making sure it’s broad enough to attract new viewers but still relevant to my niche.

9) What does your scripting or storyboarding process look like for your Reels?

Here is what my process looks like step-by-step:

a. Write the hook. Something that stops the scroll in the first three seconds.

b. Map out the key points. The main content or tips I want to share.

c. Plan the CTA. What action do I want people to take?

d. Record the voiceover (if needed). I’ve learned that recording the voiceover before editing makes the process much smoother.

e. Match video clips to the script. I pull from my travel footage and ensure the visuals change every 2-3 seconds maximum to keep it engaging. I used to start by piecing together video clips first, but I found that starting with the script and voiceover makes editing much faster and helps keep my message clear.

10) Can you share any tips or techniques for making visually appealing IG Reels, even if someone isn’t a professional videographer?

You don’t need to be a professional to create viral Reels and content that people engage with. To help with this, focus on the following:

a. Capture multiple angles for variety. One of the biggest mistakes people make is using only one long clip, which can feel static. Instead, make your Reel more engaging by capturing:

• Wide shots (to show the full scene)
• Medium shots (to add detail)
• Close-ups (to highlight key moments)

Even if you’re just filming at home, simple changes in angles make a big difference in keeping viewers engaged.

b. Keep clips short & dynamic. The sweet spot for clip length is 1.5-3 seconds max before switching to a new shot. If a clip drags on, people might lose interest and scroll away. Even subtle movements—like zooming in or cutting to a different angle—can help keep energy high.

c. Use easy-to-read text & captions for Instagram Reels. Since many people watch Reels without sound, on-screen text is essential.

• Keep text short and punchy (1-2 lines max).
• Place it in the center or top third so it doesn’t get covered by Instagram’s user interface.
• Use contrasting colors to ensure readability.

d. Add movement & transitions. Simple edits can make your Reels feel more polished and engaging. Try:

• Speeding up clips to keep energy high.
• Zooming in or out to create a natural flow.
• Using jump cuts (quick cuts between different angles) to keep things dynamic. You don’t need fancy effects—just small changes in movement make a huge impact!

e. Don’t overcomplicate it. Great Reels aren’t about having the best camera or editing software—they’re about telling a great story.

If you’re not sure what to film, just capture simple everyday moments that relate to your topic. Even walking shots, a cheers with your coffee, or flipping through a guidebook can add interest and make your Reel feel more engaging.

11) When it comes to Instagram analytics, creators often focus on metrics like reach, engagement, and follower growth. Do you have tips for improving these metrics specifically through Reels?

Focus on watch time

One of the most important (and often overlooked) metrics is watch time—the longer people watch, the more Instagram pushes your Reel to new audiences.

• Keep your content fast-paced. Change visuals every 1.5-3 seconds.
• Cut out fluff. Get to the point quickly—no long intros!
• Hook people immediately. Start with a bold statement, question, or surprising fact.

💡Pro tip: If you have access to Instagram’s Retention Graph, check where people drop off and adjust future Reels accordingly.

Optimize for engagement

Instagram prioritizes Reels that spark conversations and interactions. Here’s how to encourage engagement:

• Ask a simple, direct question in the caption. (“What’s your biggest travel hack?”).
• Use comment triggers with ManyChat. (“Comment #Guide for my free travel checklist!”).
• Create shareable content. (relatable, helpful, or surprising insights work best). Saves and shares boost your reach because they tell Instagram, “People find this valuable!”

Turn viewers into followers

Reels are great for visibility, but to actually convert viewers into followers, they need to understand what you offer.

• Introduce yourself naturally within the Reel (“Hey, I’m [Name], and I help travelers explore smarter!”).
• Reinforce your niche in the caption (“Follow for more budget travel tips!”).
• Create a Reel series (e.g., “30 Days of Travel Hacks”) so people want to come back for the next one. If you’re curious about Instagram Reels ideas for bloggers that gain traction quickly, this is a good one.

I’ve tested this myself, and Reels where I introduce myself consistently gain more followers than ones that skip it. Even adding a quick text intro in the caption helps!

12) Time is a big challenge for many creators. What are your go-to tips or tools for streamlining the process of planning, creating, or editing Instagram Reels?

Batch your content

Instead of creating Reels one at a time, batch your filming and editing to save time.

• Set aside a few hours to film multiple clips in one go.
• Capture extra b-roll (walking shots, packing, scenery) to use in future Reels.
• Pre-plan hooks and CTAs so you can film with purpose.

I don’t post daily—sometimes just 2-3 times per week—and I still grow. The key is quality over quantity.

Use templates & reusable formats

Not every Reel needs to be completely new. Some ways to repurpose content:

• Use Instagram’s Reel templates, like the ones in CapCut, to quickly plug in clips.
• Turn blog posts into Reels by summarizing key points.
• Repost high-performing Reels with slight tweaks (updated captions, new audio) or share them as Trial Reels to new audiences who don’t already follow you.

Edit smarter, not harder

Editing doesn’t have to be time-consuming if you have a simple workflow. My process:

• Script first. Writing a rough outline helps me avoid over-editing later.
• Record voiceovers before editing since it’s easier to match clips to audio than the other way around.
• Use quick cuts & zooms to keep the energy high without fancy transitions.

Editing tools I love include:

• CapCut. Free and easy for cutting, adding text, and effects.
• InShot. Great for fast edits on your phone.
• VN Video Editor. A good alternative if you want more control.

Pre-schedule & auto-publish Reels

Meta Business Suite (free!) lets you schedule Reels in advance. Later & Planoly help with content planning and auto-publishing.

Post when you have something valuable to share

You don’t need to post daily to grow. I focus on creating high-quality Reels rather than forcing content just to stay active.

13) Thank you so much for sharing your IG Reels tips! Before we sign off, can you let everyone know where they can find you?

• @RaimeeTravels for amazing travel Instagram Reels
• RaimeeTravels.com for travel & social media resources, including her Social Media Content Calendar For Travel Creators and her 1-on-1 Social Media Strategy Sessions
• Onomy, Raimee’s talent agency

Thank you!

Alright, now I hope you enjoyed this episode. I hope you feel inspired and empowered to create Instagram Reels that help you grow your blog.

I also want to thank our sponsor, Travelpayouts, for helping to make this episode possible. Don’t forget to grab their in-depth guide to growing your blog traffic with Instagram.

Don’t forget to also grab access to my free travel blogging resource library. There are a ton of resources in there on growing your community and increasing your blogging profits—including an Instagram Reels Cheat Sheet.

And of course, make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes sharing these bite-sized strategies for bloggers who want to turn their blogs into profitable full-time businesses.

Happy blogging!

Get Results On Social Media With These Helpful Past Episodes:

How To Enjoy Social Media (Growth Strategy Included!)

How To Create Content That Sells & Converts On Social Media

How To Create A Pinterest Strategy That Grows Your Traffic

How To Grow Your Flipboard Traffic Simply & Effectively

The Ultimate Guide To TikTok For Bloggers

How To Grow & Monetize Your Blog With LinkedIn

How To Grow On Threads As A Blogger

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What are your top tips for creating high-converting Instagram Reels?