Meet The Blogger – Krysti Reif

In our latest interview series which I like to call “Meet the Blogger”, where I spotlight inspiring creatives on this Blogger Magazine. We caught up with Krysti Reif who runs Orlando Decoded blog and travel blogger. Based in Orlando, FL.

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself and your blog?

I moved to Orlando, FL right out of high school to start a job at Walt Disney World. While I’ve left a couple times for different reasons, I always find myself back in that city. I love the theme parks, food, and growing cultural scene.

My blog, Orlando Decoded, is focused on exploring new and unique things to do in the theme parks and beyond. We also focus on providing tips and helpful guides for tourists as Orlando can be an overwhelming place to visit, and you’ll miss out on so much if you don’t do your research.

2. Describe what inspired you to start your blog?

I wanted to show people that Orlando is a lot more than theme parks. Yes, our theme parks are amazing, and we celebrate that on the blog. But we also have an ever expanding foodie landscape, a thriving theater scene, and lots of unique outdoor activities and festivals.

3. How do you motivate yourself to keep the blog up and running?

When I’m passionate about something, its pretty easy to keep myself motivated. I know this city really well, and it’s important to me to share my love for Orlando with others.

4. How active are you on a weekly basis? How often do you communicate with your followers?

We communicate multiple times each week. I post at least twice weekly and interact on social media at least that often. We may post more often if something newsworthy occurs.

5. What do you think is the best social media strategy for getting more visitors to a blog?

I think it’s important to tailor your social media strategy for the right audience. Too many people just slap their link wherever they can find an outlet, and that’s a good way to start alienating people. You need to research an audience first and make sure its appropriate before posting a link or promoting your blog.

6. Would you encourage other people to make their blog?

Absolutely! We all have unique knowledge and views to share!

7. A lot of people think that blogging is an easy way to make money online. Do you have some tips for those people who are interested in making money from the blog?

I would tell them that while you can make money from blogging, it’s a slow process. You have to be patient enough to build an audience and traffic.

8. What was the most challenging moment in your blogging journey so far?

I think the most challenging moment is right now. The coronavirus is wreaking havoc on Orlando (and every other city in the U.S. as well as a good percentage of the world), and the schools are currently closed. Meaning that I’m trying to keep a blog alive while 1) not being able to actually visit parts of the city and 2) juggling childcare and homeschooling around my blogging schedule. So far, my traffic hasn’t been too affected, but it’s been a challenge.

9. What is your greatest achievement outside of blogging?

Running. I was always the slowest kid in class and couldn’t run a mile to save my life. As an adult, I trained for my first 5K which grew to running multiple 10K’s, a 15K, and three half marathons. I’m currently training for a full marathon. To get to this point (when I have absolutely zero natural talent) in this area took a great deal of dedication, determination, and grit.

10. Who is your blogging hero And Why?

My blogging hero is Alicia Stella from Orlando Park Stop. My niche is pretty dominated by males, but she has really managed to build an amazing brand for herself.

11. What advice would you give to a new blogger starting out?

I think an empty page (or screen) can be very intimidating, but once you have a first draft it becomes very easy to polish that draft into great content. I would tell new bloggers to not stress out about their writing style too much. Start a post just by writing whatever is in your brain knowing that you can go back and edit it as much as you want.

12. Have you collaborate with brands? If yes, name few brands you worked with

I’d rather not name them here as I don’t have approval from them.

13. Finally, what are your thoughts about BloggerMagazine?

I love it! It’s great for bloggers to have a place to learn from each other, and brands can come to a central location to find a great fit for their business! It’s an awesome networking opportunity from all sides.

Follow  Krysti Reif on her journey at:

orlandodecoded.com | facebook.com/OrlandoDecoded/ | twitter.com/OrlandoDecoded | instagram.com/orlandodecoded/ | pinterest.com/OrlandoDecoded/
You can also read about my world travels at worlddecoded.com.