What’s the Deal with Instagram Hashtags in 2026?

Are hashtags still relevant on Instagram in 2026… or are they basically pointless now? There’s a lot of confusion around hashtags right now, especially with so many people saying different things. In this episode, Leslie breaks down what hashtags can still do specifically for local business owners, what’s changed on Instagram and how local business owners should think about visibility in 2026.

Tune into this episode to learn:

• How Instagram determines who to show your content to in 2026
• The 2 best practices for using hashtags to reach more local people in 2026
• The difference between being proactive and being optimized on Instagram — and why you need both
  
  

Mentioned in this episode:

• Get found, followed and booked by people in your city with The Local Instagram Formula
• Download my Free Guide: How To Grow Your Local Instagram Following
• Get fully booked inside The Localpreneur Academy
• Follow me on Instagram @‌lesliepresnall

If you’re ready to grow your local business and bring in a steady stream of clients, you need to check out The Localpreneur Academy. Click here to join me inside.

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“I LOVE listening to the episodes, especially since they’re focused on local businesses and it’s not just generic marketing advice.” If you love the show too, please leave a rating and review. This helps me reach more people just like you who want to reach more local people and create a business they love.

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