In this episode of Social Media Decoded, Michelle Thames breaks down the real difference between a social media manager and a social media strategist — and why confusing the two can cost businesses time, money, and momentum. Michelle explains how strategy and execution serve different purposes, the most common hiring mistakes business owners make, and how choosing the right support at the right time can dramatically change results.

This episode is essential listening for entrepreneurs, founders, and brands deciding how to invest in their marketing and visibility in 2026.

• The difference between social media management and social media strategy
• Posting content vs planning a visibility ecosystem
• Why execution without strategy leads to wasted effort
• How strategy saves money long-term
• Common hiring mistakes business owners make
• When to hire a strategist vs when to hire a manager
• How clarity impacts content, growth, and conversion

• Why roles, timing, and expectations matter

• A social media manager executes content, a strategist designs the plan
• Posting consistently does not equal strategic growth
• Strategy provides direction, focus, and measurable outcomes
• Hiring the wrong role at the wrong time creates frustration

• Clear strategy makes execution more effective and efficient

• Business owners hiring marketing support
• Entrepreneurs confused about social media roles
• Brands struggling with inconsistent results
• Founders preparing to scale visibility in 2026

• Creators transitioning from DIY to professional support

If you need clarity before hiring or scaling your marketing, explore working with Michelle’s agency for strategic support. www.thamesmediasolutions.com

For ongoing proximity, feedback, and visibility guidance, join the Collective. https://michellethames.com/elevate-and-empower-collective

Michelle Thames is a marketing strategist, podcast host, and community builder with over 15 years of experience helping brands and entrepreneurs build visibility systems that convert. She specializes in strategy-first marketing, community-led growth, and sustainable brand ecosystems.

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