040: Making $10k/Month with Only 2k Email Subscribers

—Welcome to Startup Gems, where we find undiscovered startup growth hacks, stories and case studies from every random nook and cranny of the internet.—

—Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur, an aspiring startup expert, or simply someone seeking inspiration, Startup Gems is your source for the stories that ignite the flames of innovation.—

—Hi, I’m your Host, Chris Koerner, and in today’s episode we're delving into a remarkable journey that transformed a struggling business into a thriving six-figure enterprise. We'll be exploring the inspiring story of Daren, a creative entrepreneur who discovered the principles that turned his fortunes around.—

—In this episode, we'll uncover three key principles that guided Daren's path to success: Focusing on Existing Assets, Understanding the Customer Journey, and Embracing a Value-First Approach. These principles aren't just theories; they're actionable strategies that any business owner can implement to elevate their own ventures.—

—Let’s start by getting into Daren’s story. Daren, like many of us, was caught up in the chase for growth. As an entrepreneur and creator, he felt the constant pressure to expand, to reach more people, and to make more money. But he realized something crucial: the obsession with growth often blinded us to the opportunities right in front of our noses.—

—For over a decade, Daren wrote online, pouring his heart and soul into his work, yet struggled to build a substantial audience or generate meaningful revenue. He looked at successful figures like Nathan Barry, Daniel Vassallo, and Steph Smith, wondering why it seemed so effortless for them. Daren believed that success hinged on having a massive audience, a belief that hindered his progress for years.—

—Then, he stumbled upon a game-changing concept from Cal Newport's book, So Good They Can't Ignore You—the Craftsman Mindset. This approach emphasized outcome-focused work, sparking a revelation in Daren. He realized that he needed to shift his focus, leveraging what he already had rather than obsessing over what he lacked.—

—Daren set a clear goal: to generate 10 grand per month as a content creator. He recognized that his existing email list could be the cornerstone of his success. Armed with this goal, he embarked on a journey, meticulously crafting his strategy.—

—He started by understanding his audience deeply, following the stages of the customer journey: Awareness, Engagement, and Conversion. Daren strategically used social media, especially Twitter, to create awareness. He engaged with his audience genuinely, fostering connections and trust. His approach wasn’t about relentless selling; it was about providing value. He offered free resources, engaging email series, and meaningful content, all designed to create tension, pulling people toward his paid products and services.—

—Daren didn’t stop there. He diversified his offerings, catering to his true fans. He understood that loyal customers were the key to sustainable success. By providing immense value and offering a variety of products and services, he cultivated a dedicated fan base. These fans eagerly anticipated his new releases, creating a steady income stream.—

—His approach was not a complex one. It was grounded in simplicity, focusing on actionable steps rather than lofty ideals. Daren's story is a testament to the power of leveraging existing resources, understanding your audience, and delivering consistent value. It’s proof that you don’t always need more; you need to make the most of what you have.—

—The path to success might be simpler than you think. And so, here’s some key takeaways behind his achievement and how you can apply them to your own venture.—

—Principle 1: Focus on Existing Assets—

—The first principle that led to Daren's success is focusing on existing assets. Daren realized that he didn't need to constantly chase new leads; he had a valuable asset right under his nose—his email list.—

—Take a close look at your business. What resources or assets do you already possess that you can leverage for growth? It could be your existing customer database, a dormant product line, or even a talented team member. Instead of always seeking something new, maximize the potential of what you already have.—

—Principle 2: Customer Journey Understanding—

—Another vital principle that played a pivotal role in Daren's journey is understanding the customer journey. He recognized that awareness, engagement, and conversion were crucial stages his audience went through.—

—Start by mapping out your customer journey in your own business. Understand the steps your customers take from first hearing about your business to making a purchase. Once you have this clear roadmap, you can tailor your marketing and engagement strategies to guide them through this journey. It's about being present and relevant at each stage.—

—Principle 3: Value-First Approach—

—The third and perhaps the most significant principle was Daren's value-first approach. He didn't bombard his audience with sales pitches but instead provided genuine value at every step.—

—Embrace a value-first approach in your business. Create content, resources, or experiences that genuinely benefit your customers. This can be in the form of educational content, free resources, or even exceptional customer service. By consistently delivering value, you not only build trust but also create a sense of reciprocity. Customers who receive value are more likely to engage with your brand and become loyal supporters.—

—So, there you have it, the three principles that led to Daren's incredible success: Focus on Existing Assets, Understand the Customer Journey, and Embrace a Value-First Approach. By applying these principles to your own business, you can work smarter, not harder, and achieve remarkable results.—

—Remember, success doesn't always lie in seeking something new; sometimes, it's about maximizing what you already have and delivering exceptional value to your customers. It's time to put these principles into action and watch your business thrive.—


—Thank you for being part of today's adventure through the world of startups and innovation. Did this episode ignite any fresh perspectives or ideas? Share your reflections and favorite takeaways in a review wherever you’re listening now. Remember to stay curious, continue to forge your own path, and subscribe and follow Startup Gems to be the first to access stories that will fan the flames of your entrepreneurial passion.—