Monetize Media

In this episode, Kyle Scott discusses the current state of newsletters, responding to Sam Parr's claims that the medium is dead and saturated. He argues that while some areas may be competitive, there are still ample opportunities in niche markets and local newsletters. He compares the newsletter space to blogging and podcasting and how those platforms took decades to reach normal people. He concludes by encouraging listeners to think about newsletters as owned audience, and not just a single format, comparing Beehiiv to Shopify.Sam's posts:https://x.com/thesamparr/status/1866565501012545597https://x.com/thesamparr/status/1761433621447979122Chapters00:00 The State of Newsletters: Are They Really Dead?02:27 Understanding Market Saturation in Newsletters13:41 Opportunities in Niche Newsletters22:14 The Future of Newsletters and Owned AudiencesSubscribe to the Monetize Media newsletterFollow Kyle on X (@KyleScottL)Kyle's brandsAccessGMT.comWalkingTheBoards.comTip.NewsOnPattison.com

In this episode, Kyle Scott talks to Geoff Sharpe, founder of Lookout Media, who brings a refreshing approach to local journalism by focusing on in-depth civics news rather than the typical lifestyle content that dominates many local newsletters. With publications in Ottawa and Vancouver, Sharp emphasizes the importance of quality journalism, which has allowed him to command premium subscriptions, with over 75% of his revenue coming from dedicated members. This conversation delves into the challenges of monetizing local media, the significance of building trust through consistent and insightful reporting, and the potential for niche local newsletters to thrive. Sharp also shares insights on audience engagement and the balance between hard news and lighter content, stressing that a well-rounded approach can create a strong community connection. As the media landscape evolves, his strategies offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to build a sustainable local news brand.Chapters00:00 Intro04:16 Challenges and Strategies in Local News Monetization06:45 Local News Dynamics12:13 Marketing Strategies for Local News18:02 The Role of Opinion in Local Journalism23:47 Business Model Insights and Revenue Streams33:21 Challenges in Local Business Marketing38:42 Niche Opportunities in Local Newsletters44:22 Building Community Through Local Newsletters50:08 Tools and Strategies for SuccessLinksLookout MediaOttawa LookoutFollow Geoff on X (@Geoff_Sharpe)Subscribe to the Monetize Media newsletterFollow Kyle on X (@KyleScottL)Kyle's brandsAccessGMT.comWalkingTheBoards.comTip.NewsOnPattison.com

In this episode, Kyle Scott discusses 7 digital media trends expected to dominate in 2025. He highlights the resurgence of local media, the importance of AI search optimization, the rise of online communities, the growth of live and social shopping, the emergence of prediction markets, the potential of Beehiiv as a content platform, and the trend of businesses acquiring audiences. TakeawaysLocal media is experiencing a resurgence due to underserved markets.AI search optimization will become crucial for visibility.Online communities will provide a sense of belonging and engagement.Live shopping will transform how brands sell products.Prediction markets will offer new ways to gauge public sentiment.Beehiiv is set to revolutionize content creation and distribution.Businesses will increasingly seek to acquire and engage their audiences.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Digital Media Trends01:11 Resurgence of Local Media08:08 AI Search Optimization11:13 Communities13:18 Live and Social Shopping17:02 Prediction Markets18:52 Beehive: The Shopify of Content21:43 Businesses Acquire AudiencesSubscribe to the Monetize Media newsletterFollow Kyle on X (@KyleScottL)Kyle's brandsAccessGMT.comWalkingTheBoards.comTip.NewsOnPattison.com

Kyle Scott discusses the evolving landscape of SEO in the context of AI advancements. He outlines the essential strategies for creators and marketers to adapt, including the use of structured data, intent-based phrases, and tagging across various content types. He also highlights the importance of optimizing for both digital and physical searches as AI technology continues to develop.TakeawaysAI is transforming SEO, not eliminating it.Structured data helps AI understand content better.Natural language processing is key for future searches.Tagging content improves visibility across platforms.Implementing LLMS.txt can enhance AI crawling.Physical search optimization is becoming crucial.Links referenced in this episode:schema.orgmintlify.comfirecrawl.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: DraftKings Mintlify Firecrawl Meta

In this conversation, Michael Kauffman, founder of Catskill Crew, shares insights on building a successful local newsletter, focusing on community engagement, monetization strategies, and the importance of authenticity in content creation. He discusses the growth of his newsletter, the role of polling and feedback in shaping content and product, and the various revenue streams he has developed, including events and partnerships with local businesses. Kauffman emphasizes the significance of building a trusted brand and the potential for local newsletters to fill gaps left by traditional media.00:00 Introduction to Michael Kauffman and Catskill Crew03:05 The Media Landscape in the Catskills09:04 Growth Strategies and Content Creation15:05 Targeting the Right Audience21:18 Building Trust and Relationships with Advertisers29:54 Building Community Through Events36:39 Brand Development and Merchandising42:18 Exploring Real Estate Opportunities52:07 The Value of Local Newsletters and Community Engagement58:16 The Future of Catskill Crew and Community GrowthLinksVisit Catskill CrewFollow Michael on X (@MikeyPesto)Start your own local newsletter on BeehiivSubscribe to the Monetize Media newsletterFollow Kyle on X (@KyleScottL)Kyle's brandsAccessGMT.comWalkingTheBoards.comTip.NewsOnPattison.com

Kyle Scott discusses the current landscape of local newsletters, particularly focusing on the platform Beehiiv. He highlights the mistakes many operators make and the significant opportunities available in the local newsletter space. It is exceedingly difficult to earn substantial local advertising revenue. The solution for this is scale. But that's only half measure.The real way to succeed with local newsletters is by partnering with high-value services, particularly in real estate. Or, better yet, launching a local newsletter for your local business.Here's how to do. it.TakeawaysLocal newsletters are a growing trend with significant potential.Honeypot Labs aims to explore monetization strategies for digital audiences.There is a high demand for local news, but dwindling supply.Building a local newsletter requires careful planning and strategy.Monetizing local newsletters can be challenging without scale.Partnerships with high-value businesses can enhance revenue opportunities.Real estate transactions present lucrative partnership possibilities.Community engagement is key to building a loyal subscriber base.Understanding local businesses' advertising needs is crucial for success.Effective monetization requires a blend of creativity and sales skills.00:00 Introduction to Local Newsletters12:06 The Rise of Local Newsletters17:34 Challenges in Monetizing Local Newsletters26:14 Strategies for Success in Local Newsletters

On today’s episode we speak with Joe Pulizzi, the “godfather” of Content Monetization, who literally wrote the book, “Content Inc.” Joe is an accomplished digital media expert who is a best selling author, podcaster, speaker, and so much more.Joe is one of the world’s top content marketing authorities. He’s founded three companies, including the Content Marketing Institute, launched dozens of events, and is the recipient of the 2014 John Caldwell lifetime achievement award for content marketing from the content counsel. Hard to be more distinguished than that in this space. Listen now as Joe walks us through his content marketing journey, what trends he is seeing today, and the importance of building your email list. Onto the interview. ● (0:01) Episode introduction with Kyle and Jason.● (1:07) Kyle tells a story to Joe regarding his self-narrated audio book, “Content Inc.”● (2:03) Joe discusses the process of creating his first audio book “Epic Content Marketing”, the challenges he faced with recording it, and the other books he authored that followed. ● (6:59) How Joe monetizes his events, the benefits of launching projects after building an audience first, and streams of revenue.● (13:40) What makes Joe’s podcast successful and the importance of having a set format.● (18:23) Joe expands on the benefits of having a dedicated audience in order to achieve success with a book or content media platform.● (19:08) Joe introduces his strategic model for creating value on a platform.● (22:39) Making time for your business, utilizing your time efficiently in order to build your assets for financial freedom, and setting goals.● (27:24) Joe talks about finding your content tilt and the reasons content marketing fails for some people.● (28:58) A discussion about Compound Growth.● (30:42) The current state of Content Marketing in 2023● (33:10) Focusing on one or two platforms to diversify your media company and bring value to your audience.● (37:19) Why do most start ups not make it? The downside of starting with your product first instead of building the audience first.● (40:25) Getting feedback on your product from your audience.● (42:28) Do you need to go to college to build a business?● (44:49) Joe reviews useful tools for content creators.● (47:09) Kyle and Jason elaborate on various topics brought up during their interview with Joe.Anything mentioned in episode : Creator Economy Expo: (https://cex.events/)The Tilt: (https://www.thetilt.com/)The Orange Effect Foundation: (https://theorangeeffect.org/)Justin Welsh: (https://www.justinwelsh.me/)Red Bull Media House: (https://www.redbullmediahouse.com/en/about-us)Morning Brew: (https://www.morningbrew.com/daily)Milk Road: (https://milkroad.com/)MrBeast: (https://www.youtube.com/user/mrbeast6000)Apple Car: (https://appleinsider.com/inside/apple-car)Software and tools mentioned: HabitBull (a...

On today's episode, we speak with Drew Smith, founder, and editor of the Liberty Line of Philly Sports Block. In just a few short years, Drew has built an audience of tens of thousands by creating a media brand off of his t-shirt sales. He has deep experience in how creators monetize their audience through the sale of merchandise.Listen now as Drew walks us through the process of building his site, creating and selling third-party unlicensed sports t-shirts, and how the Eagles winning the Super Bowl in 2018 was his launching point.(1:05) Introduction to Drew Smith and how his previous work as Marketing Director for RushOrderTees and creating a successful hyper-specialized t-shirt for Eagles fans kicked off his entrepreneurial journey.(2:46) Creating shirts that went viral and shifting the business model to creating merch for bloggers and influencers.(5:04) Leveraging apparel to create cash flow for your business and building an audience for The Liberty Line.(6:47) How a viral shirt from topical events increased brand exposure.(12:22) Any niche can take an inside joke in their space or topical moments and turn them into revenue.(16:44) Creating products will bring an audience to a website but the quality of the content makes them come back and become engaged fans.(18:04) Don’t be afraid to ask others for help and have people to share ideas with. Also how adding Google Adsense to your high-traffic website can boost your revenue.(24:02) Partnering with others to create exclusive products and leveraging audiences.(34:26) Work-life balance for a creator-based business and how going full-time right away is often not the best idea.(43:21) The constant creation of content means being willing to drop what you’re doing and do something about what is topical to stay relevant.(49:41) Tools that Drew uses to build and grow The Liberty Line.(53:16) Closing thoughts with Kyle and Jason.Guest Social Media Links:The Liberty Line: (https://thelibertyline.com/)Twitter:( https://twitter.com/LibertyLinePHL)Instagram:( https://www.instagram.com/libertylinephl/)Facebook:( https://www.facebook.com/LibertyLinePHL)Twitch TV:( https://www.twitch.tv/thelibertyline)Follow us on Social Media -----Listen on your favorite streaming platform: (https://link.chtbl.com/MonetizeMedia)  Twitter: (https://twitter.com/monetizemediahq)   TikTok: (https://www.tiktok.com/@monetizemediahq)    Linkedin: (https://www.linkedin.com/company/monetize-media/)   YouTube: (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8a20ZIx7dx1reQ4pdvCBPA)   Check out our website for more information: (

On today’s episode, we’ve got Doug Gollan. He’s the founder and editor of privatejetcardcomparisons.com, a consumer buying guide to private aviation services. Doug’s story is a fantastic example of how to monetize media in a niche field. If you’ve ever thought something was too niche, let Doug’s example show that if you can contribute meaningfully and have the right audience, particularly an audience with resources, you can be successful pursuing a niche.This episode is going to be a little bit different. Kyle: So Jason, you’re a bit mysterious right? Like what does Jason do in his free time? So you came to me last week and said, you know what, I’m a member of this service. I want to have this guy on our podcast; he runs an interesting business. It’s not the private jet company; it’s the guy who advises private aviation. So I just want to make it clear that we’ve lost 90% of our audience here, but Mr. Private Jet, why don’t you introduce our upcoming guest for today? Jason: I disagree that we’ve lost our audience here, because this to me is a perfect example of going to the niche of niches and making, what I assume, is a very good living for Doug Gollan. If you’ve ever thought that niche is too small, Doug has pretty much proved everyone wrong. Private aviation. The assumption is that roughly a hundred thousand Americans utilize private aviation. I want to say that’s it, but that’s subjective. Not a big number. The number of people is not high. This did not scare him off. Nothing should ever scare you off on a niche that you can monetize if you feel you have the best information. It doesn’t even have to be the best, I think Doug is the best by the way. If you think you can contribute to a niche, you win. You’ve already won, it’s just a matter now how big you win within that niche. And that is what he is doing in private aviation.Kyle: In all seriousness, this is a really good interview we recorded with Doug. Really good insight on how to monetize what you think might be a small niche. And then really this world of not just aviation, but marketing to deep-pocketed, whether it’s listeners, readers, viewers, it really hammers home the point we’ve talked about a bunch, which is if you have the right audience, it can be worth a lot. If you have the right audience and that audience is literally worth a lot, it could really be a good media business to be in. We’ve got Doug Gollan. He’s the founder and editor of privatejetcardcomparisons.com and they are a consumers buying guide to private aviation services. Let’s get right on to our interview with Doug.  ● (0:01) Episode introduction with Kyle and Jason.  ● (2:38) Doug’s welcome and introduction.● (3:03) Doug’s background in aviation media, publishing, creating his own publication, Elite Traveler, and then pivoting to privatejetcardcomparisons.com. ● (8:23) Doug discusses the logic of using his background in media to target a niche market and how he built organic traffic with his private aviation content. ● (13:30) A deeper look at Doug’s three revenue streams (subscriptions, ad revenue, selling research) and ideas for growth. ● (16:15) Balancing free vs. paywall content. ● (18:23) The makeup of Doug’s company and his cost-benefit analysis of expanding it.● (20:05) Talking about Doug’s decision to not use affiliate marketing and working with an ultra-high net worth audience. ● (24:08) An overview on the private aviation industry.  ● (30:16) Doug explains selling his company’s research. ● (32:23) A discussion on newsletters and if they’re just a trend or have staying power. ● (35:42) Doug’s explanation of jet tracking and the various related viewpoints.  ● (48:03) Where to find Doug online and how to subscribe to his...

On today’s episode, we speak with Bobby Trosset, a former NFL pregame radio host who is striking out on his own with a podcast and Youtube channel. Bobby is making the difficult switch from mainstream media to the creator world, with content focused on the Baltimore Ravens, Baltimore sports, and beyond. He has multiple podcasts, two Youtube channels, and is thinking about ways to grow his audience to other mediums. In just under nine months, he’s amassed thousands of subscribers and tens of thousands of downloads. Yet the crushing doubt of building your own content business in a niche market hangs over his head daily. Listen now as Bobby walks us through how he made the switch from radio to podcasting and YouTube out of necessity, what he is doing to build and monetize his audience, and how the constant uncertainty of future success is with him. Onto the interview…. ● (0:09) Episode introduction with Kyle and Jason.  ● (1:07) Bobby’s welcome and introduction.● (2:10) Bobby’s background, the creation of Raven’s Fault, and the importance of Youtube. ● (7:51) How Bobby handled the new media landscape and decided to create his own content. ● (15:10) The daunting nature of striking out on your own and handling online criticism.● (21:00) The breakdown of Bobby’s business plan and how he approaches monetization and revenue streams.● (27:50) A deeper look at advertising with BlueWire, Google AdSense, and YouTube. ● (34:03) Working in new media and the pros/cons of working on sports content creation without press credentials. ● (39:00) Content differentiation ideas and ditching old media formality. ● (42:05) Expanding business opportunities, online sports betting, and using morals to guide business.  ● (48:38) Balancing content creation, audience growth, and monetization.● (52:08) Tools of the trade talk and growth opportunities. ● (58:15) Where to find Bobby online. ● (59:11) Closing thoughts with Kyle and Jason.Tools and Resources Mentioned: Youtube Creator Hub Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/youtube-creators-hub/id843566797 BlueWire Podcasts: https://www.bluewirepods.com/Google AdSense: https://www.google.com/adsense/start/Riverside Podcast Recording: https://riverside.fm/homepageBeehiiv Newsletter Platform: https://www.beehiiv.com/ Rev Automated Transcription: https://www.rev.com/services/auto-audio-transcription Guest Social Media Links --- Ravens Vault Podcast :(https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ravens-vault/id1635836036)Ravens Vault YouTube Channel : (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1AKndUf3naqrtbFDcN1gDg)Bobby Trosset:Website: (https://linktr.ee/bobbytrosset)Twitter: (

On today's episode, we speak with John Miller, founder of Scribewise, a content marketing firm. John is an expert when it comes to leveraging content to grow your business and close sales. He works with clients across a range of verticals to help them craft their content strategy to get their brand in front of the right audience.While not our typical guest, John understands how content can serve as a top of funnel tactic to generate business opportunities, something any creator can learn from. Listen now as John walks us through how businesses can use content building his agency, the local sports website he founded that employed Stephen A. Smith, and created national reporters and the process of selling and reacquiring his own business.(0:09) Introduction to John Miller and his expertise in leveraging content to grow businesses.(1:31) The origin story of John’s business, and how he got into content marketing through his love of sportscasting in Philadelphia.(4:12) The business struggles you face when you focus only on the product and forget the marketing.(6:27) The importance of failing and learning to pivot.(8:26) John describes what his company Scribewise does.(11:45) The importance of an engaged, niche audience to monetize your content. A billion Instagram followers probably isn’t the solution.(15:07) Leveraging word of mouth and thought leadership for more sales.(22:03) Deciding “Am I the business or am I the content arm?” and the internet’s democratization of content.(33:12) Lessons learned on how to merge your company or be acquired.(39:37) What kind of marketing is working well for John’s clients right now.(41:14) A call for courageous marketers.(42:04) Closing thoughts with Kyle and Jason.Guest Social Media Links:John Miller:Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnmillerscribewise/) Twitter: ( https://twitter.com/ScribeMiller)Scribe WiseLinkedIn: (https://www.linkedin.com/company/scribewise/)Twitter : (https://twitter.com/Scribewise/)Youtube : (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUMsVWZwYwDTfvoihU7JEWw)Website: ( www.scribewise.com)Raising Stake Links Website (https://raisingstake.com/)Twitter : (https://twitter.com/raisingstake)Newsletter : (https://raisingstake.beehiiv.com/)Linkedin : (https://www.linkedin.com/company/raising-stake/)TikTok : (https://www.tiktok.com/@raisingstake)YouTube: (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5r1IqOMv_wi9E8WPBAazDQ)Facebook : (

On today’s episode we speak with Miles Becker of MilesBeckler.com. Miles is a thought leader in the online marketing space, having built a lifestyle brand with his wife and a following of hundreds of thousands on YouTube. He gives away deeply tactical advice on everything from SEO and affiliate marketing. A must have resource if you want to monetize your audience. I personally used Miles’ videos when I was learning my own SEO strategy in 2018. Miles has an unbelievable world view and incredible insights on digital attention, society, and the ways that creators can funnel the attention to create sustainable businesses. Listen now as Miles takes us on a journey from why you must build your email list, how AI dictates our social media use, and what trends he’s seeing in short form video.  (0:08) Introduction with Kyle and Jason.  (1:04) Introduction to Miles and how he got on the show.  (3:43) The origin story of Miles and his business, and how he describes what he does. (8:25) Growing email lists, why it's important, and how social media is changing. (14:00) How people can leverage the social media platforms to bring them into a funnel.   (19:40) How attention has changed over the years and the increase in reliance on devices.           (23:55) How short form content impacts audience allegiance to creators, and how search platforms increase your credibility.  (29:12) Leveraging your abilities, learning to delay gratification, and building compound growth. (38:44) What the revenue breakdowns are for Miles’ businesses.        (43:19) How Miles is currently most bullish about.  (48:35) Where you can find Miles Beckler online. (49:07) Closing thoughts with Kyle and Jason.   Guest Social Media Links: Miles Beckler: Website: (https://www.milesbeckler.com)Twitter: (https://twitter.com/milesbeckler)LinkedIn: (https://www.linkedin.com/in/beckler/)YouTube: (https://www.youtube.com/milesb)Facebook: (http://facebook.com/miles.beckler.page)Instagram:(https://www.instagram.com/milesbeckler/)Pinterest: (https://www.pinterest.com/milesbeckler/)  Follow us on Social Media: Listen on your favorite streaming platform: (https://link.chtbl.com/MonetizeMedia)  Twitter: (https://twitter.com/monetizemediahq)   TikTok: (https://www.tiktok.com/@monetizemediahq)    Linkedin: (

On today’s episode we talk with Jessica Williams, founder of Pet Talk Media and YouDidWhatWithYourWeiner.com. Jessica has become the world's foremost expert in outdoor excursions with your Dachshund. We explore with Jessica how to own a super specific niche, and how that can be both a good thing and a bad thing when it comes to growing an online business. Still, the site is profitable and it has allowed Jessica to run her own lifestyle business. Listen now as Jessica talks about the opportunities that come with having a very narrow and focused audience, the consulting work she does to supplement her income, and her recent competition.  (0:08) Introduction with Kyle and Jason.  (0:52) Jessica’s background and the backstory of You Did What With Your Weiner.(6:25) Early business models that Jessica pursued with blogging.  (12:02) Where the business revenue comes from and what the breakdown is, and rising competition in the niche.(16:55) The type of products that drive the affiliate revenue and standing out from competitors in the niche. (22:46) Expanding into video content.          (27:28) The in-person club and the possibility of creating physical products. (30:52) Starting a new blog, acquiring a new blog, and how they operate.(41:32) A moment when Jessica had doubts about the business.       (46:32) Pet Talk Media, Niche Blog Biz blog coaching, and future plans for Jessica’s businesses.   (51:45) A tool or plugin that Jessica cannot live without. (55:09) Where you can find Jessica and her sites online. (58:05) Closing thoughts with Kyle and Jason.   Tool(s) / Resources mentation In this Interview: Wordpress: (https://www.wordpress.com)Media Vine: (http://www.mediavine.com)Adthrive:Guest Social Media Links: Jessica Williams and You Did What With Your Weiner: Main Blog : (https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/)For My Dachshund: (https://formydachshund.com/)Seattle Dog Club : (https://www.meetup.com/Adventureweiner-Club-of-Seattle/)Linkedin : (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicarhaew/)Instagram: (https://www.instagram.com/youdidwhatwithyourwiener/)Twitter : (https://twitter.com/YDWWYW)Facebook : (https://www.facebook.com/YouDidWhatWithYourWeiner)Pinterest :(https://www.pinterest.com/Adventurewiener/)YouTube : (

On today's episode, we speak with Ross Pomerantz, the man behind the widely successful business humor social media account, Corporate Bro. Ross has become the avatar for corporate sales bros across the country, particularly in silicon valley.He’s amassed a massive audience with workplace humor, which is a trend we’ve identified in content. He monetizes through advertising, apparel sales, advisory opportunities, speaking engagements, and his new investment arm, Corp Capital, a very interesting side of the business. Listen now as Ross walks us through his process of creating a steady flow of content, using his following to create business opportunities, and why pushing the envelope allows him to stand out. (0:08) Welcome back and what to expect in the future.  (4:38) Guest introduction by Jason and Kyle.  (5:33) How Ross Pomerantz originally got into content creation and how he found his content niche.(11:28) How to scale and grow your brand and yourself after the initial traction and audience growth, and how Ross monetizes his content.   (22:00) How Ross felt about sales and why he left.  (24:15) The Corporate Bro merch store and strategy.       (27:22) Monetization strategies of Corporate Bro and the story behind the Corp Capital fund. (31:58) How Ross got started with business advising and how it works.  (37:21) The benefits of using LinkedIn for content creation.          (41:18) How Corp Capitol has been doing and how it works. (45:04) How Ross got into speaking events.   (47:30) Goals for Ross and the brand in the future, and what he would like to be doing. (48:52) What the revenue pie looks like for Corporate Bro. (50:14) Whether there was a point where Ross thought Corporate Bro may not work, and the decision to switch to using his personal name.(54:47) A tool or program that Ross could not survive without. (55:47) Where you can find Ross and Corporate Bros online.(56:33) Final thoughts with Jason and Kyle.Guest Social Media Links: Corporate Bro:Ross Linkedin : (https://www.linkedin.com/in/corporatebro/)Corporate Bro Linkedin : (https://www.linkedin.com/company/corporatebro/)Website: (http://www.corporatebro.com)YouTube: (https://www.youtube.com/CorporateBro)Twitter: (https://twitter.com/TheRealCorpBro)Facebook: (https://www.facebook.com/Corporate.Bro/)Instagram:(https://www.instagram.com/corporate.bro)TikTok: (

 Welcome back to part two of our ten actionable insights from our first ten interviews. If you have not listened to part one, you can pause this and go back and listen to our last show which was the first five actionable items we had. Or, in all honestly, the order doesn’t really matter so if you like this, you can go back.  These are part two of our takeaways from our first ten episodes, trying to identify trends and themes that we’ve seen early on that apply to if not all of the creators we’ve interviewed, most of them, and will contain a key takeaway that you can take whether you’re a vlogger, podcaster, blogger, whatever it is. Intro 0:00 - 1:276: Sometimes you have to make shark moves (1:28-6:39)6:40-8:36, Ep 5 | Nick Pittman, Norcast TV: Six Figure Income Doing Local Weather Forecasts(https://player.captivate.fm/episode/8d0c1aca-7e3b-4b66-9b5b-eb86f03097af)8:37 - 10:03, Ep 8 | Alexis Grant, They Got Acquired: The Bloomberg For Small and Medium Sized Acquisitions(https://player.captivate.fm/episode/59327540-4f85-4cac-bfe9-c684406200e3)7: Embrace doubt (10:07-14:37)14:40 - 16:54, Ep6 | Brandon Perna, "That's Good Sports": The Daily Show meets Sports Center(https://player.captivate.fm/episode/ac927b45-3c49-4a1c-94ab-1d0737092047)16:57 - 18:06, Ep 10 | Adam Vazquez, Content Is For Closers: How To Turn Your Podcast Into a Business Development Tool(https://player.captivate.fm/episode/df1cf6e9-f111-49dd-8a2b-9b045d2c24ef)8: Consistency is key (18:09-23:30)23:33 - 24:21, Ep 10 | Adam Vazquez, Content Is For Closers: How To Turn Your Podcast Into a Business Development Tool(https://player.captivate.fm/episode/df1cf6e9-f111-49dd-8a2b-9b045d2c24ef)24:24 - 26:04, Ep 9 | Kyle Scott, CrossingBroad.com: From Local Sports Blog to Massive Affiliate Success(https://player.captivate.fm/episode/6480b66b-6e53-4fee-a2d2-500c05b7d29c)9: Automate the mundane time sucks (26:06 - 31:17)31:19 - 32:21, Ep 3 | Kenny Coleman, Bourbon Pursuit: From Whiskey Podcast To National Bourbon Brand(https://player.captivate.fm/episode/fbc08d7e-4879-4c7f-94d9-e35214c4797b)32:24 - 34;57, Ep 5 | Nick Pittman, Norcast TV: Six Figure Income Doing Local Weather Forecasts(https://player.captivate.fm/episode/8d0c1aca-7e3b-4b66-9b5b-eb86f03097af) 10: Must be willing to learn from mistakes (35:00-38:26)38:29 - 42:14, Ep 7 | Jason Ziernicki, Warwick Gaming: From Unemployment to an 8-Figure Affiliate Business(

10 Actionable Insights From Our First 10 Episodes (Part 1)Today we are doing something a little different. Instead of having an interview, it’s the middle of summer, a number of potential guests are on vacation as are we off and on the last couple of wheels, so we thought it would be a good time to ten actionable insights from our first ten interviews. A little bit of a midway checkpoint to see some of the themes that you can take with you and implement into your business. We’ve called these out along the way and thought this would be a good checkpoint to walk through them, talk about them, and then also play some of these clips. These are some of the most important learnings that we’ve seen, even just in the small handful of interviews we’ve done so far. We’ve identified ten different trends that we’ve seen over these first ten interviews. So we’re going to name them and our Producer Cameron will play clips of the examples that we cite as we go through. If you like this show, if you haven’t listened to the podcast yet, this is a good starting episode because it’s a sampler pattern for all of the shows we’ve done so far. So you’re going to be able to duck in and out of guests we’ve had, pick the ones you like, and go back and listen to those shows. Without further adieu, let’s get onto our ten points:1: You have to maintain authenticity (3:06-6:55)6:57- 10:45,  Ep 1 | Josh Babbitt, The Hackers Paradise: The ROI of Building a Loyal Audience with Honest Reviews (https://player.captivate.fm/episode/f5e8e0ea-c210-48fc-b8e4-e63657339f9b)10:46-12:42, Ep 2 | Kent Auslander, Hot Route Tips: How Madden Freakout Video Helped Launch Premium Subscription Site(https://player.captivate.fm/episode/3241aa18-8b13-4b70-a4f3-d04874e67a2d)2: Setting time limits (12:46-16:10)16:12-18:36 , Ep 9 | Kyle Scott, CrossingBroad.com: From Local Sports Blog to Massive Affiliate Success(https://player.captivate.fm/episode/6480b66b-6e53-4fee-a2d2-500c05b7d29c)18:38- 20:10, Ep 10 | Adam Vazquez, Content Is For Closers: How To Turn Your Podcast Into a Business Development Tool(https://player.captivate.fm/episode/df1cf6e9-f111-49dd-8a2b-9b045d2c24ef)3: Must be willing to take the leap (20:13-24:54)24:55-27:29 , Ep 1 | Josh Babbitt, The Hackers Paradise: The ROI of Building a Loyal Audience with Honest Reviews (https://player.captivate.fm/episode/f5e8e0ea-c210-48fc-b8e4-e63657339f9b)4: You should care about having the right audience, not the biggest (27:32-32:40)32:43-38:22, Ep 4 | Jason Barrett, Barrett Sports Media: Building a Valuable Niche Brand with Advertising, Events and Consulting(https://player.captivate.fm/episode/5b9584ed-b9ca-425a-8fee-361cf6474605)38:24-39:56, Ep 8 | Alexis Grant, They Got Acquired: The Bloomberg For Small and Medium Sized Acquisitions(

On today’s episode, we speak with Adam Vazquez, founder of Heard Media, a podcast production agency and host of the Content Is For Closers podcast. Adam’s company helps professionals and creators produce and distribute their podcasts. Adam has a unique background in marketing. From writing an award-winning commercial at Vaynermedia to interviewing leading creators, Adam has a unique understanding of using content to effectively market products and services. He uses his podcast to raise his profile and for business development. His work allows him to see the real-world impact and data behind the latest trends in podcasting. Listen now as Adam walks us through working for one of the leading business influencers on the planet, taking the leap to start his own company, and the future of podcasting. On to the interview.  (0:08) Introduction by Jason and Kyle.  (1:00) Adam’s origin story, how he founded Heard Media, and the award-winning commercial he wrote.(6:23) Adam’s experience working at Vaynermedia.  (10:00) Adam’s experience with going out on his own to start his own company, how he got traction, and the importance of a supportive partner. (16:52) The importance of discovery and interaction in content creation, and setting expectations for growth and success. (24:01) What Heard Media offers and why.      (30:15) The importance of finding and serving 100 people instead of focusing on monetization first.  (34:02) What trends Adam is seeing, the future of the company, and what the team currently look like. (38:45) How Covid impacted podcasting trends.         (42:50) One thing Adam would change over the past five years.  (42:37) If there was a moment where Adam thought he might fail.    (45:01) A tool or service that Adam can’t live without. Where you can find Adam, Heard Media, and Content Is For Closers online.       Kyle Interview on Content is for Closers : https://www.contentisforclosers.com/podcast/how-to-monetize-an-audience-of-any-size/Links mentation In this Interview: Content Is For Closers: (https://www.contentisforclosers.com) Notion: (http://www.notion.so) Guest Social Media Links: Adam Vazquez: Linkedin: (https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamvazquez)Twitter: (https://twitter.com/AdamVazquez)Heard Media:Website: (http://www.trustheard.com)Twitter: (https://twitter.com/TrustHeard) Follow us on Social Media: Listen on your favorite streaming platform: (https://link.chtbl.com/MonetizeMedia)  Twitter: (https://twitter.com/monetizemediahq)   TikTok: (a

On this show I interview my business partner and co-host of this show, Kyle Scott. Kyle knew at a very young age that he wanted to be involved with covering sports and giving his slant on a story. From joining a physically mailed newsletter group at the age of four, to living in his parents basement in his mid-twenties, Kyle has fought to make his dream a reality. As the co-founder of CrossingBroad.com, Kyle has provided a unique and at times irreverent stance on Philadelphia sports. Since 2009, he’s built an unbelievably loyal audience that unbeknownst to them, almost became part of the Barstool Sports family. He’s broke huge national stories, took on the largest names in Philadelphia sports reporting, and has ultimately built a sports betting affiliate cash machine that led to a 25 million dollar acquisition exit. This was quite a conversation.Kyle remembers breaking down in tears when he realized his business may not recover because of a tunnel vision mistake on a specific revenue stream. He walks us through the amazing process of growing Crossing Broad from zero traffic to one of the most popular sports blogs in the country. He also tells how two Crossing Broad readers potentially saved the site with an investment that ended up paying off big for everyone. Kyle is a humble person with an insane drive to be successful. Working with him over the past four years has provided me with many learning experiences that I hope you can pick up on a bit during the show.  (0:07) Jason introduces his business partner and co-host, Kyle Scott. (1:36) Kyle’s early days, his lifelong passion for sports and sports media, and his career path to starting his own sports media business. (6:10) The beginning process and origins of Crossing Broad, how the blogs were initially marketed, and the utilizing Facebook to scale the blog.(16:13) The next steps to monetization after gaining traffic, and running a blog from his parents basement after quitting his job.(28:29) The first viral hit for Crossing Broad and how it impacted the business. (34:35) The next steps in the evolution of Crossing Broad and some early regrets and mistakes.      (37:55) A moment where Kyle thought the business may fail, why you should never put all your eggs in one basket, and how Kyle tried to recover the business. (47:54) How two readers invested in the brand to get reputable writers for the business and how Kyle initially saved the business by selling t-shirts.(55:48) The balance between hard work and luck, and the stabilization of the business.         (57:42) How the business and Kyle’s involvement changed when sports betting was legalized. (1:01:40) Kyle’s advice to anyone who is self employed and one  tool that Kyle couldn’t live without in business.   (1:06:45) Where to find Kyle on social media.      Guest Social Media Links:  Kyle Scott: Twitter: (https://twitter.com/kylescottl)Linkedin: (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylelaskowski/) Links mentation In this Interview: Crossing Broad: (https://www.crossingbroad.com) Chartbeat: (https://www.chartbeat.com) Tyler...

On today’s episode we speak with Alexis Grant, founder and CEO of They Got Acquired, a digital media company focused on small and medium-sized acquisitions. Alexis is building a massive resource for entrepreneurs and professionals in the M and A space that will help all stakeholders understand the value of their business and learn from other acquisitions. Prior to founding They Got Acquired, Alexis built and sold a content agency, served as EVP of content for the Penny Hoarder, and sold niche website The Write Life. Listen now as Alexis walks us through her journey throughout digital media, building and selling two businesses, her long-term vision for helping founders explore acquisitions, and the constant refinement of her process. (0:08) Introduction to Alexis Grant.  (0:55) Alexis Grant's backstory and career start. (3:33) How Alexis got into entrepreneurship and the process behind publishing her first ebook.  (7:53) How her trip to Africa impacted her life and career.  (9:59) Why and how Alexis started her content agency, how it made money, and the model she developed.   (13:11) What kinds of backgrounds and skills Alexis looks for in writers, and the team was managed.      (16:11) How to build your credibility and build trust with your readers.   (20:15) Alexis’s experience with being acquired twice, how it has influenced They Got Acquired, and long-term growth plans for the company.    (25:24) The possibility of selling data to B2B customers and other potential B2B opportunities.      (30:41) The overall revenue makeup of They Got Acquired and how the website is funded.   (32:54) How to balance personal, family, and work life.    (35:17) One tool that Alexis can’t live without.    (36:01) If she ever had a moment where she thought she may potentially fail. (37:55) Where you can find Alexis and They Got Acquired.  (38:52) Closing remarks and thoughts about the interview. Guest Social Media Links:  Alexis Grant:  Twitter: (https://twitter.com/alexisgrant) Linkedin: (https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexisgrant/) Personal Website: (https://alexisgrant.com/) Articles by Alexis : (https://www.usnews.com/topics/author/alexis_grant)  They Got Acquired: Website: (https://theygotacquired.com/) Podcast: (https://theygotacquired.com/podcast) Twitter: (https://twitter.com/TheyGotAcquired) Linkedin: (https://www.linkedin.com/company/they-got-acquired/)  Links mentation In this Interview:  TheWriteLife: (

On today’s episode, Kyle interviews his partner and co-host of this show, Jason Ziernicki. Jason started from building a small local SEO shop to becoming the largest daily fantasy sports affiliate in America before building a sports media business with Kyle, which was eventually sold for $25 million. He talks about his process from leaving his job with a baby on the way in 2008, to starting a local digital marketing agency, to becoming an SEO powerhouse in one of the most competitive fields (daily fantasy sports). The moment he almost failed. Building a business with Kyle. And the mental toll of the acquisition process.This was a really fun interview - we wanted to take time to interview each of ourselves to really get behind the process of how we got to where we are, and Jason’s unbelievable story of someone who has gone from super lean beginnings with a single laptop to becoming one of the biggest affiliates in the US.(0:08) Kyle introduces Jason and the episode.  (1:40) The new “tell two friends” referral program and the origin story of Jason Ziernicki as he quit his job with a baby on the way to get into SEO.(13:15) The affiliate model that Jason used, why it was so successful for him, and the biggest affiliate check he ever received, and the volume of traffic during the DSF peak. (19:23) The negative ramifications of regulation in the industry and its impact on revenue.(25:47) Jason’s biggest mistake Jason has ever made. (28:42) The balance between planning and risk taking, and how to make calculated risks in business.    (35:04) How Jason got into sports betting when it was first legalized. (38:42) How Jason partnered with Kyle and why they decided to work together.     (49:13) How Jason and Kyle grew a business together.  (53:50) How Jason and Kyle combined and scaled, what made their business good, and how they approached scaling nationally in sports betting.  (01:05:03) How COVID impacted the business.  (01:07:44)  The acquisition process and how they got through it.(01:13:19) How Jason used to explain what he does for a living and how it has changed.   (01:15:11) The scariest moment during Jason’s journey. (01:16:40) The one tool or service that Jason can’t do his job without. (01:18:56) Where you can find Jason online. Guest Social Media Links: Twitter: (https://twitter.com/jziernick)Instagram: (https://www.instagram.com/jasonziernicki/) Links mentation In this Interview: Draft Kings: (http://www.draftkings.com)Bet New Jersey: (http://www.betnewjersey.com)Promo Code Kings: (http://www.promocodekings.com)Crossing Broad: (http://www.crossingbroad.com )  Follow us on Social Media: Twitter: (https://twitter.com/monetizemediahq)   TikTok: (