060: A $100k/Year No-Code Sponsor Database

—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.—

—I’m your host, Chris Koerner, and today, we're diving into a remarkable success story, the journey of WhoSponsorsStuff, and the invaluable lessons we can glean from their rise to prominence.—

—In this episode, we'll explore the three key principles that underpinned WhoSponsorsStuff's success. First, we'll discuss the art of Identifying a Gap in the Market and Providing a Solution—a critical skill for any business owner. Then, we'll delve into the importance of Building Strong Relationships and a Supportive Community, fostering connections that can transform your business. Lastly, we'll touch upon the power of Continuous Innovation and Adaptability, essential traits in an ever-evolving market.—

—Today, we're diving into the story of WhoSponsorsStuff, a fascinating venture rooted in the worlds of journalism, media, and entrepreneurship, founded by Ryan Sager and co-founder Jesse Watkins.—

—So, what exactly is WhoSponsorsStuff? At its core, it's a database meticulously tracking sponsorship data for newsletters, founded by Ryan Sager, a media veteran who played pivotal roles at esteemed publications like the Wall Street Journal and TIME.—

—The journey of WhoSponsorsStuff started when Ryan transitioned from editorial work to a more product-oriented role at a company called Ladders. Here, they distributed content through a daily newsletter, monetizing it with native ads. With Jesse Watkins joining to handle ad sales, they built a multi-million-dollar ad business from just one newsletter. This success, combined with their understanding of efficient monetization and newsletter content, laid the foundation for their business.—

—Their experience in third-party sales for newsletters revealed a gap: the need for a system to systematically track newsletter sponsors. Thus, WhoSponsorsStuff was born, evolving from an informal tracking system to a comprehensive platform cataloging over 350 newsletters.—

—What sets them apart is the wealth of data they compile, including ad screenshots, sponsor landing pages, web views, company summaries, and more, empowering newsletter operators to make informed decisions about sponsorships.—

—Now, let's talk marketing. WhoSponsorsStuff's strategies are practical and effective. They rely on inbound and referral marketing, leveraging satisfied users to spread the word. Educational content plays a significant role, exemplified by their Send and Grow podcast, a platform where industry experts discuss growth tactics and advertising methods.—

—Their niche expertise shines through their extensive database tracking over 280 newsletters and their direct sponsorships. Plus, they offer practical tools like a pricing calculator, fostering trust and transparency in their relationships with advertisers. By engaging with their audience and community, they've built strong relationships within the newsletter space.—

—But how do they make money? WhoSponsorsStuff generates revenue by offering subscriptions to its platform, providing different tiers of access for newsletter operators. These subscriptions grant access to their database and tools, keeping operators up-to-date with the latest advertising trends and data. They also offer premium services and consulting to help newsletter operators optimize their advertising strategies.—

—With over 50 publishers, including names like Morning Brew and Flipboard, using their paid product, Sales Pro, WhoSponsorsStuff has established itself as a valuable resource, streamlining ad sales and carving a profitable niche in the newsletter industry. —

—And that, listeners, is the story of WhoSponsorsStuff – a testament to the power of industry expertise and innovative solutions.—

—Let's now jump into our breakdown and explore three key principles behind Ryan’s Success and show you how you can apply these principles to your own ventures.—

—Principle 1: Identifying a Gap in the Market and Providing a Solution—

—One of the fundamental reasons behind WhoSponsorsStuff's success was their ability to identify a gap in the market and provide a much-needed solution. In the world of newsletters, there was a lack of systematic tracking for sponsors. WhoSponsorsStuff stepped in to fill this void by creating a comprehensive database, empowering newsletter operators with valuable insights into sponsorships.—

—As a business owner, keen observation of your industry can unveil hidden gaps and opportunities. Take the time to research and listen to your customers. Conduct surveys, read reviews, and engage in conversations to identify pain points. Once you've pinpointed a gap, focus your efforts on developing a solution that effectively addresses the needs of your target audience. Remember, successful businesses often start by solving a problem others might have overlooked.—

—Principle 2: Building Strong Relationships and a Supportive Community—

—WhoSponsorsStuff didn't just stop at creating a product—they actively built strong relationships within the newsletter community. By engaging with their audience and providing tailored support, they established themselves as a valuable resource. Their educational content and interactive approach helped them connect with users on a deeper level.—


—Building relationships is the cornerstone of any successful business. Invest time in understanding your customers, listen to their feedback, and respond promptly to their queries. Create platforms for interaction, such as webinars, social media groups, or forums, where your customers can engage with you and each other. Providing excellent customer service and showing genuine interest in your customers not only fosters loyalty but also creates a supportive community around your brand.—

—Principle 3: Continuous Innovation and Adaptability—

—WhoSponsorsStuff didn’t get comfortable after reaping their rewards; they continuously innovated and adapted to the evolving needs of their customers. From starting as a simple tracking system, they expanded their offerings, providing tools like pricing calculators and educational content. Their ability to adapt to the changing landscape of newsletter advertising kept them ahead of the curve.—


—Innovation and adaptability are key to staying competitive. Keep an eye on emerging trends and technologies relevant to your industry. Encourage a culture of innovation within your team, where new ideas are welcomed and explored. Regularly assess your products or services, seeking ways to enhance or expand your offerings based on customer feedback and market demands. Remember, businesses that embrace change are better positioned to thrive in a dynamic market environment.—


—There you have it, listeners—three principles that fueled WhoSponsorsStuff's success: Identifying a Gap in the Market, Building Strong Relationships, and Continuous Innovation and Adaptability. By applying these principles to your own business endeavors, you can pave the way for growth, resilience, and long-term success.—



—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.