Instagram DM Secrets: How to Collect Emails Without Leaving the App with Heston Roberts

If you’re still telling people to “click the link in bio,” it’s time to upgrade your Instagram strategy. I’m joined by Heston Roberts, a true wizard when it comes to building DM automations that actually move people from your Instagram content into your email list (and eventually, into paying clients).

We go beyond the basics: how DM automation reduces friction, why it can outperform link-in-bio by 60% or more, how to keep things personal and scalable, and what common mistakes to avoid. Plus, Heston shares how to build direct DM-to-email funnels, so your followers never have to leave Instagram.

What You’ll Learn:

[03:22] Why DM automation is a game changer for content that works while you sleep
[08:34] The problem with “click the link in bio” (and why it lowers conversions)
[13:41] How DM automations help grow your following through better engagement
[16:57] Step-by-step: turning DMs into an email funnel without leaving Instagram
[21:40] The truth about small accounts: why it still works with low engagement
[26:17] Mistakes to avoid: over-general keywords, automations that feel spammy, and more
[31:06] Using deep links to drive traffic directly into apps like YouTube
[39:45] How to keep it personal (and still scalable) with voice notes and custom automations
[45:58] Heston’s subscription for creators who want to master ManyChat and chat funnels

Key Takeaways:

1. DM automation reduces friction: instead of making followers stop scrolling, visit your profile, and figure out your links, it meets them right where they already are—your DMs.
2. You can build email funnels inside Instagram: ask followers for their name & email in the DMs, sync to your email platform, and send them your freebie without them leaving the app.
3. ManyChat (our favorite tool) is a Meta business partner, which means it’s approved and safe to use directly with Instagram.
4. Even small accounts can see ROI: you don’t need thousands of comments—sometimes one new subscriber or client makes the whole system worth it.
5. Use specific keywords like “getpod” or “hotguide” to trigger automations and avoid accidental triggers. And yes, keep it fun, like clickable buttons!

Links + Resources Mentioned:

• Get a FREE MONTH of ManyChat Pro! Sign up here.
• Follow Heston on Instagram
• Subscribe to Heston’s YouTube Channel

CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST, ELIZABETH MARBERRY:

WORK WITH ELIZABETH

• Apply for your FREE Instagram Breakthrough Session with Elizabeth
• Free guide to Monetize Your IG: Seven Simple and Proven Ways to Finally Make Money on Instagram

Follow Elizabeth Marberry on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook

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