Authenticity vs. Algorithms: How to Build a Personal Brand That Actually Works with Justin Schuman
Listen to the episode here: 👉 https://youtu.be/jswQnQVFdhM?feature=shared
The internet is full of advice about “niching down” and curating your online presence—but what if that advice is actually holding you back? In this episode of Silly Little Social, I sit down with Justin Schuman, a former Broadway actor turned personal branding coach, to discuss why true success on social media comes from showing up as your whole, unfiltered self.
With nearly 700K TikTok followers, Justin has built a business helping creators break free from content that feels robotic and instead craft a brand that feels personal, human, and real.
Inside This Episode, We Discuss:
• How Justin went from Broadway performer to personal branding expert
• Why niching down felt suffocating (and what finally made his content take off)
• The biggest mindset blocks keeping people from creating content—and how to move past them
• How your fear of being seen might be holding you back from success
• Why authenticity isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a daily practice
• The best way to create content that actually connects with people
About Justin Schuman
If you’ve ever felt stuck trying to “crack the code” of social media, Justin Schuman is here to tell you: There is no code—just YOU.
A Broadway performer turned Human Creative Director, Content Creator, and Coach, Justin helps people build magnetic, authentic brands by doing the exact opposite of what the internet thinks you should do—ditching the niche, breaking the rules, and leading with your full personality.
Through The Human Approach, his signature framework, Justin has helped thousands of overthinkers, perfectionists, and multi-passionate creators find their voice, grow engaged followings, and actually enjoy content creation again—without forcing themselves into a boring, one-size-fits-all strategy.
With 800k+ followers and millions of views across Instagram and TikTok, Justin is proof that you don’t need to go viral to build a powerful, profitable brand—you just need to show up in a way that feels real, effortless, and sustainable.
Expect bold takes, brutally honest advice, and zero fluff—because if there’s one thing Justin does best, it’s cutting through the noise and helping you finally own your magic.
Lessons for Entrepreneurs & Content Creators
1. If your content feels forced, you’re doing it wrong.
• Justin shares how he struggled when he tried to “niche down” in a way that didn’t feel good. It wasn’t until he fully embraced his own voice that his audience exploded.
2. Fear of being seen is the #1 content killer.
• Many people believe they’re “bad at content,” but in reality, they’re afraid to fully show up. The more you embrace yourself, the easier content creation becomes.
3. A strong personal brand is just you—fully expressed.
• Forget overthinking aesthetics and messaging. The best brand strategy? Being yourself in the most amplified, compelling way possible.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by social media advice or struggled to create content that actually feels like you, Justin’s insights will be a game-changer.
Take the pressure off, ditch the idea that you need to be someone else, and start sharing your message your way.
👉 Subscribe on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/eA3xDsyx
OR
👉 Find it on your favorite podcast platform: https://lnkd.in/ej_fmNTS
đź”— Connect with Justin Schuman:
Instagram: @justinschumanofficial
TikTok: @justinschumanofficial
LinkedIn: Justin Schuman
YouTube: Justin Schuman
đź’ˇ Resources
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Whether you’re a seasoned content creator, aspiring influencer, or business owner looking to master social media marketing, Silly Little Social delivers the perfect mix of entertainment, education, and inspiration to help you navigate and thrive in the digital landscape.
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