Do You Really Need a Niche in 2026? My Answer Will Surprise You

In this episode, Brock Johnson breaks down whether you really need a niche in 2026 and why the answer isn’t as straightforward as most advice makes it seem. He explains how the “TikTokification” of Instagram has changed how content is distributed, why variety-based content can perform well, and how the algorithm now responds more to immediate interests than rigid niche boundaries. Brock also covers the difference between a content niche and a business niche, how to build a loyal following without boxing yourself into one topic, and when niche clarity still matters for brands, superfans, and long-term growth. This episode is designed to help creators grow without burnout while still building a recognizable and monetizable presence on Instagram in 2026. 💥Related Links Checkout Shopify 👉http://www.shopify.com/tribe Checkout Brevo 👉 http://www.brevo.com/tribe and use Code Tribe50 🤓Watch Next! Personal Branding On Instagram For Beginners https://youtu.be/foOBvu9F4gw?si=vo2OsZ2va_LKvZuC 💥Subscribe to the InstaClubHub Newsletter For weekly top trending audios and meme templates to help you grow on Instagram! https://instaclubhub.com/newsletter/ ------------------------------------------------------------------ 🎯Check out InstaClubHub!! For $7! Plus Ultimate B-Roll Bundle 👉 https://instaclubhub.com/flash-sale-7/ ▶ Be sure to check out the Build Your Tribe Playlist for other great episodes ➜ https://www.chalene.com/byt 🔗 Let’s Connect! Brock Instagram: ➜ https://www.instagram.com/brock11johnson/?hl=en TikTok: ➜ https://www.tiktok.com/@brock11johnson/video/7115837515713547566 00:00 - Intro 00:04 - Do You Really Need a Niche Today? 00:47 - What Is a Niche, Really? 01:13 - The Surprising Origin of Instagram 01:56 - Other Big Brands That Started Niche 02:59 - What Early Creators Did Differently 03:45 - How the Algorithm Changed Everything 05:56 - The Three Reasons Niching Became Essential 07:19 - Why “Personality Alone” Isn’t Enough Anymore 08:35 - The Rise of Algorithm Speed Over Loyalty 10:06 - TikTok’s Influence on Content Discovery 12:01 - Does This Mean Niches Don’t Matter Now? 13:30 - Creator & Consumer Burnout From Niche Repetition 16:50 - Where Niching Still Matters Most 18:04 - The Niche-to-Brand Tree Metaphor 19:48 - Final Thoughts for New Creators