We recently connected with Holly Hanlon and have shared our conversation below.

Holly, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We believe kindness is contagious and so we’d love for you to share with us and our audience about the kindest thing anyone has ever done for you?

When I moved to Palm Beach County, I was stepping into the unknown. I didn’t know anyone, and while the sun and sea were inviting, I felt the kind of nervous excitement that comes with starting over. But something extraordinary happened, I discovered a community of women here who redefined what it means to be supportive. From day one, they welcomed me with open arms, offering more than just warm smiles. They gave their time, advice, and connections without hesitation, creating a safety net of encouragement and possibility.

What makes these women so special is their genuine desire to see others thrive. They didn’t just point me toward the best spots in town or make casual introductions; they went out of their way to connect me with opportunities, resources, and people who could help me grow personally and professionally. Whether it was a heartfelt recommendation for a local school or introducing me to a business leader who could provide invaluable insight, they gave selflessly, and their belief in lifting others inspired me profoundly. Their kindness didn’t just make me feel welcome, it reminded me of the power of women coming together to support one another. It’s a gift I carry forward, striving to be that same kind of connector and cheerleader for others.

Holly, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

When I look back at my journey, it’s clear that every chapter – no matter how different – has played a vital role in shaping who I am today and the business I’ve built. I started my career in photojournalism, drawn to the art of storytelling through a lens. That passion for capturing moments naturally transitioned into public relations, where I learned the power of crafting narratives that resonate. From there, I delved into the tech world, mastering web development, project management, and business analysis for Fortune 500 companies. Each step added new skills to my toolbox, but one common thread tied them all together: a love for creating, communicating, and connecting.

Eventually, I realized it was time to channel all that experience into building something of my own. That’s how my digital media business was born. Today, I specialize in social media and podcast management for businesses, helping them amplify their voices and connect with their audiences in authentic, impactful ways. I’m not just a service provider, I’m a partner in my clients’ success, empowering them to grow their brands and create meaningful relationships with their communities.

What sets my business apart is the diversity of my background. Whether it’s producing a compelling podcast episode, designing a visually stunning social media strategy, or consulting on brand messaging, I bring a multidimensional perspective. I also bring a deep understanding of the entrepreneur’s journey, having walked the path myself, and know how to navigate the challenges and opportunities that come with it.

On a more personal note, I’ve also had an unexpected detour into acting and modeling, which taught me to embrace vulnerability and step out of my comfort zone. Those experiences enriched my creative mindset and inspired me to launch my podcast, Unconventional Success, coming in January 2025. The podcast is my way of sharing stories and strategies that empower others to break the mold and achieve success on their own terms.

What I’m most proud of is creating a space where my clients feel seen, supported, and capable of realizing their dreams. My mission is to help businesses and individuals find their unique voice and share it with the world in a way that resonates deeply. At the end of the day, my work isn’t just about social media metrics or podcast downloads – it’s about making a real, lasting impact.

How did you build your audience on social media?

Building a social media presence isn’t just about gaining followers, it’s about creating genuine connections with the right people. Authenticity is the foundation of that connection. When you’re true to who you are and what your business represents, you naturally attract an audience that aligns with your values and vision. It’s not about trying to appeal to everyone, it’s about finding your people. The ones who resonate with your story, engage with your content, and see your brand as an extension of their own aspirations or needs.

Inauthenticity might get you quick wins, but it won’t build lasting relationships. Being transparent about your journey, your values, and even your challenges shows your audience that there’s a real person behind the brand. That’s what people connect with. Authenticity also works like a filter, it helps weed out those who don’t align with your business, leaving you with an audience that truly believes in what you do. When you focus on quality over quantity, you build a loyal community that not only supports your business but also amplifies your message in ways no algorithm ever could.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

In the fast-paced world of digital media, staying relevant means constantly learning, adapting, and pushing boundaries. I’m a firm believer that growth happens just outside your comfort zone, which is why I prioritize expanding my knowledge and skills every day. Whether it’s diving into the latest trends in social media algorithms, exploring emerging podcasting tools, or refining my strategies through industry research, I make it a point to stay ahead of the curve. Digital media evolves rapidly, and my commitment to continuous learning ensures that I deliver the most innovative and effective solutions to my clients.

One of the most impactful decisions I’ve made is always working with a business coach. Having someone in my corner to provide support, encouragement, and perspective has been invaluable. A great coach doesn’t just challenge you, they help you see what’s possible when you step outside of what feels safe. For me, it’s about creating a mindset of growth, both for myself and for the clients I serve. That dedication to personal and professional development is the fuel that keeps my business thriving and my clients achieving extraordinary results.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.sohosocialmedia.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialwithholly/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hollyjhanlon
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hollyjhanlon/

Image Credits

Rodrigo Almeida