TJ Larkin shares a powerful concept that could revolutionize local newsletter monetization: the negative CAC model. Based on insights from a B2B newsletter called The Assist, TJ explains how strategic onboarding emails with affiliate-style offers can actually earn more than the subscriber acquisition cost in the first week.

He illustrates how this could work in the local context using examples like med spas and dentists—businesses with high customer lifetime value (LTV) that may be willing to pay for introductions to the right audience. Through hypothetical but compelling math, TJ shows how even a 1% conversion rate on a strong welcome offer could zero out your Facebook ad spend.

The episode finishes with practical advice on segmentation, automation, and surveying to match offers with the right subscriber demographics. This isn’t just theory—TJ is actively building and testing this model and invites others to collaborate or share insights.

📬 Contact TJ: localnewsletterinsider.com

#LocalNewsletter

#NegativeCAC

#MediaMonetization

#NewsletterGrowth

#CustomerAcquisition

#EmailMarketing

#DigitalMedia

#LocalAdvertising

#MarketingStrategy

#SubscriberGrowth

TJ Larkin interviews Ethan Realander about his journey from finance to entrepreneurship through his Rolling Suds power washing franchise and Westchester Weekly newsletter. Ethan shares how he's acquiring subscribers for just 20-25 cents each and his vision for creating multiple revenue streams through these complementary businesses.

The conversation covers newsletter design, content creation, and community engagement strategies. Ethan explains how he's building a team while TJ provides advice on advertising, networking, and scaling subscriber acquisition. Key takeaways include starting before you're "ready" and how local newsletters can serve as powerful marketing channels for related businesses.

Connect with Ethan Realander at Westchester Weekly or through his Rolling Suds franchise in Westchester County, NY and Fairfield County, CT.

#LocalNewsletter

#SmallBusinessGrowth

#ContentMarketing

#Entrepreneurship

#FranchiseOwnership

#LocalMedia

#NewsletterStrategy

#EmailMarketing

#CommunityBuilding
#BusinessNetworking

In this detailed walkthrough, TJ Larkin reviews Mike's first issue of the Green Bay Buzz newsletter before launch. They examine the newsletter layout, section organization, and design elements while discussing practical improvements.

The video also covers Mike's Facebook ad setup, including how to properly configure conversion tracking and avoid common mistakes that waste ad spend. Perfect for anyone considering starting a local newsletter in their community.

Stop thinking of yourself as a newsletter creator. Start building a local media company.In this episode, I break down why the most successful local content creators are going beyond their newsletters to build complete media ecosystems:-Why your newsletter makes you invisible to 90% of your community-How to build a professional website that drives subscriptions (not kills them)-Getting your content into Google News for exponential reach-Using Instagram as your "public number" that attracts advertisers-The local podcast strategy that turns interviews into advertising deals-Community events that transform digital connections into real relationships-Building business directories and job boards for additional revenueReady to stop hiding in inboxes and start building something bigger?#LocalNewsletter #MediaCompany #ContentStrategy #NewsletterMonetization

Learn how to capture valuable reader data with post-subscription surveys for your local newsletter. In this video, I break down why surveys are crucial for your business, the most effective implementation methods, and how we achieve an astounding 87% completion rate. Perfect for local newsletter publishers looking to attract advertisers with solid demographic data and tailor content to reader preferences.This step-by-step guide covers:-Why reader demographics are gold for advertisers-Three implementation methods (and which one gets 8X better results)-The 11 most important questions to ask your readers-Technical setup tips using Beehive-How to use this data to grow your newsletter businessWhether you're just starting your local newsletter or looking to improve your existing one, implementing these survey strategies will help you understand your audience better and provide more value to potential advertisers.#LocalNewsletter #EmailMarketing #NewsletterGrowth #LocalPublishing #EmailSurveys #NewsletterMonetization #LocalBusiness

In this episode, we dive deep with Michael Kauffman, the visionary behind Catskill Crew and founder of Newsletter Ventures. Michael shares his unique approach to local newsletter monetization, revealing how he's built a thriving media business through authenticity, community engagement, and creative revenue streams beyond traditional advertising. From sold-out local events to custom Monopoly boards that flew off shelves, Michael demonstrates how thinking outside the box has allowed him to create a brand that subscribers genuinely connect with.

The conversation explores the power of thoughtful design, the importance of playing the long game, and why competition in the local newsletter space can actually benefit everyone. Michael also discusses his newest venture helping newsletter operators across all niches maximize their revenue potential through creative business development. Whether you're running a local newsletter or any type of media business, this episode offers invaluable insights on building authentic brands that stand out in an AI-driven world.

Sign up for Beehiiv here and get a 30 day free trial and 20% off for 3 months: https://www.beehiiv.com/?via=LeanderScoop1

In this episode, we dive deep with Michael Kauffman, the visionary behind Catskill Crew and founder of Newsletter Ventures. Michael shares his unique approach to local newsletter monetization, revealing how he's built a thriving media business through authenticity, community engagement, and creative revenue streams beyond traditional advertising. From sold-out local events to custom Monopoly boards that flew off shelves, Michael demonstrates how thinking outside the box has allowed him to create a brand that subscribers genuinely connect with.

The conversation explores the power of thoughtful design, the importance of playing the long game, and why competition in the local newsletter space can actually benefit everyone. Michael also discusses his newest venture helping newsletter operators across all niches maximize their revenue potential through creative business development. Whether you're running a local newsletter or any type of media business, this episode offers invaluable insights on building authentic brands that stand out in an AI-driven world.

Sign up for Beehiiv here and get a 30 day free trial and 20% off for 3 months: https://www.beehiiv.com/?via=LeanderScoop1

Want to grow and monetize a local newsletter? In this episode, TJ Larkin sits down with Alex from Mount Juliet Buzz to talk about scaling hyperlocal media, the power of video marketing, and the best way to monetize without chasing small ad dollars.  

Sign up for Beehiiv here and get a 30 day free trial and 20% off for 3 months: https://www.beehiiv.com/?via=LeanderScoop1

Want to grow and monetize a local newsletter? In this episode, TJ Larkin sits down with Alex from Mount Juliet Buzz to talk about scaling hyperlocal media, the power of video marketing, and the best way to monetize without chasing small ad dollars.  

Sign up for Beehiiv here and get a 30 day free trial and 20% off for 3 months: https://www.beehiiv.com/?via=LeanderScoop1

Thinking about starting a local newsletter? Billy Howell, founder of Arlington Bagel, spills all his secrets on growing an audience, selling ads, and making local media work for you. We talk about the best platforms, ad strategies, engagement hacks, and the surprising things he’s learned along the way. If you're looking to build a newsletter that thrives, this episode is a must-watch!

Sign up for Beehiiv here and get a 30 day free trial and 20% off for 3 months: https://www.beehiiv.com/?via=LeanderScoop1

Starting a local newsletter is the easiest way to build an audience today. In just six months, we grew our two newsletters to 14,000+ subscribers—and learned a TON along the way. In this video, I break down what worked, what didn’t, and the biggest lessons for anyone looking to start a local media brand. Whether you want to create an email newsletter or build a full local media company, this video will give you the blueprint. Let’s go!

Sign up for Beehiiv here and get a 30 day free trial and 20% off for 3 months: https://www.beehiiv.com/?via=LeanderScoop1

If you’re thinking about starting a local newsletter or turning your side hustle into a full-time media business, this episode is for you. Landon Huslig built Wichita Life from an Instagram page into a full-fledged hyperlocal media company with over 25,000 subscribers and six-figure revenue.

In this interview, we break down: How he grew from 0 to 25,000 newsletter subscribers. 🔥 The exact monetization strategies he uses (including sponsorships & events). Why social media growth matters for newsletter revenue. His biggest mistakes (so you don’t have to make them). Where the local media industry is headed (and how to stay ahead)

💡 Want to grow your own local newsletter? Watch this now.

Sign up for Beehiiv here and get a 30 day free trial and 20% off for 3 months: https://www.beehiiv.com/?via=LeanderScoop1

TJ Larkin interviews Phat Chiem, founder of The 518 newsletter serving Albany, NY. With a background from the Chicago Tribune and Yahoo, Phat combines professional journalism with content curation, creating original stories alongside local event listings. This approach built 2,300+ subscribers in one year without significant ad spend.

The 518's distinct branding draws on Albany's history, improving engagement and reducing acquisition costs. Phat shares growth tactics including leveraging Reddit communities, bartering with local businesses, and creating partnerships with events like First Friday Albany to build brand legitimacy.

The conversation explores monetization beyond traditional ads, including creative sponsorships and content collaborations that support other business ventures. Phat discusses how his marketing agency, StoryCraft, benefits from the newsletter's audience and outlines plans for expansion into events, podcasting, and niche newsletters.

Connect with Phat Chiem on Twitter @phatxchiem or at the518.com. Phat and his wife run StoryCraft, a boutique marketing firm specializing in content creation and brand storytelling.

#LocalJournalism #NewsletterBusiness #CommunityMedia #ContentCreation #LocalMarketing #MediaEntrepreneur #Newsletters #LocalBranding #AlbanyNY #HyperlocalNews

Just got back from a BNI networking event and had to record this emergency breakdown. I met someone running a local print magazine franchise—and the numbers SHOCKED me. $7 per magazine to print and mail, a 15% franchise fee, and a tiny subscriber base. Meanwhile, we’re running digital newsletters with near-zero costs and a wider reach.The takeaway? Traditional media businesses are slow, expensive, and stuck in their ways. If you’re even thinking about starting a local newsletter or a digital media business, watch this—because the opportunity is MASSIVE.DM me if you want to chat about launching your own local newsletter, and let’s crush this space together.Sign up for Beehiiv here and get a 30 day free trial and 20% off for 3 months: https://www.beehiiv.com/?via=LeanderScoop1

Local newsletters are exploding in 2025, and everybody is talking about it. In this video, I give an overview of this business from all angles: ✅ Why local newsletters work (and where people go wrong) ✅ How to grow your newsletter with Facebook ads ✅ Monetization strategies that actually work ✅ The future of AI and local journalism If you’re thinking about starting a local newsletter, watch this first! 🔥 💡 Got questions? Drop them in the comments, and I’ll respond! 🔔 Subscribe for more content on newsletters, marketing, and digital media. Sign up for Beehiiv here and get a 30 day free trial and 20% off for 3 months: https://www.beehiiv.com/?via=LeanderScoop1

TJ Larkin interviews Phat Chiem, founder of The 518 newsletter serving Albany, NY. With a background from the Chicago Tribune and Yahoo, Phat combines professional journalism with content curation, creating original stories alongside local event listings. This approach built 2,300+ subscribers in one year without significant ad spend.

The 518's distinct branding draws on Albany's history, improving engagement and reducing acquisition costs. Phat shares growth tactics including leveraging Reddit communities, bartering with local businesses, and creating partnerships with events like First Friday Albany to build brand legitimacy.

The conversation explores monetization beyond traditional ads, including creative sponsorships and content collaborations that support other business ventures. Phat discusses how his marketing agency, StoryCraft, benefits from the newsletter's audience and outlines plans for expansion into events, podcasting, and niche newsletters.

Connect with Phat Chiem on Twitter @phatxchiem or at the518.com. Phat and his wife run StoryCraft, a boutique marketing firm specializing in content creation and brand storytelling.

#LocalJournalism #NewsletterBusiness #CommunityMedia #ContentCreation #LocalMarketing #MediaEntrepreneur #Newsletters #LocalBranding #AlbanyNY #HyperlocalNews

TJ Larkin interviews Jas Singh about building the Winnipeg Digest to 25,000 email subscribers and 60,000 social media followers in one year. Jas explains why reels are essential for Instagram growth initially and how a simple landing page optimization cut his subscriber acquisition costs by 50%.

The discussion covers monetization strategies, with Jas sharing his approach to selling $10,000 annual advertising packages with industry exclusivity. He outlines strategic partnerships for local events and markets, explaining his expansion beyond newsletters into a full local media company with multiple revenue streams.

Follow Jas Singh on Twitter @creatingjas for more insights on building local newsletters and media companies. As founder of the Winnipeg Digest, Jas has grown his local media business to nearly 25,000 email subscribers and 60,000 social media followers in just one year.

#LocalMedia #NewsletterGrowth #InstagramStrategy #LocalMarketing #ContentCreation #EmailMarketing #DigitalMarketing #LocalBusiness #MediaBusiness #Entrepreneurship

Shane Brady reveals how he built a local newsletter capturing 25% of his town's adult population. Working full-time, Shane creates compelling content in just one hour using AI and automation to analyze subscriber data and curate more effectively.

He shares his monetization strategy that achieved a 90% ad slot sell-out rate for six months, explaining why simple subscription models work better than complex CPM pricing in small markets. Shane discusses expanding to multiple locations through partnerships and transforming his workflow with automated systems.

Connect with Shane Brady on LinkedIn or Twitter @hoodieandshorts. His newsletters are BOQ Today and YGK Today, serving Belleville and Kingston, Ontario.

#LocalNewsletters

#ContentCreation

#EmailMarketing

#LocalMedia

#SmallTownBusiness

#NewsletterMonetization

#ContentAutomation

#DigitalPublishing

#LocalJournalism

#AIContentTools

Shane Brady reveals how he built a local newsletter capturing 25% of his town's adult population. Working full-time, Shane creates compelling content in just one hour using AI and automation to analyze subscriber data and curate more effectively.

He shares his monetization strategy that achieved a 90% ad slot sell-out rate for six months, explaining why simple subscription models work better than complex CPM pricing in small markets. Shane discusses expanding to multiple locations through partnerships and transforming his workflow with automated systems.

Connect with Shane Brady on LinkedIn or Twitter @hoodieandshorts. His newsletters are BOQ Today and YGK Today, serving Belleville and Kingston, Ontario.

#LocalNewsletters

#ContentCreation

#EmailMarketing

#LocalMedia

#SmallTownBusiness

#NewsletterMonetization

#ContentAutomation

#DigitalPublishing

#LocalJournalism

#AIContentTools

Scott Brodbeck shares his 15-year journey building Local News Now, a successful media company with multiple publications in the DC area. He explains the differences between newsletter-first and website-first approaches, revenue diversification strategies, and how automation has been critical to his success. Scott discusses his multi-faceted revenue approach including programmatic advertising, direct sales, self-serve options, and membership programs.

For those considering the technical aspects of running a local media business, Scott breaks down his tech stack using WordPress, MailChimp, Airtable, and Zapier to create efficient workflows. He emphasizes quality local content while being strategic about operations to build a sustainable business that serves the community for years to come.

Connect with Scott Brodbeck on Twitter @ScottBrodbeck or visit his company website at LNN.co. Check out his flagship site ARLnow.com to see his local news approach in action.

#LocalNews

#MediaBusiness

#NewsletterStrategy

#LocalJournalism

#MediaMonetization

#ContentAutomation

#DigitalPublishing

#LocalMedia

#AudienceGrowth

#RevenueModels

Scott Brodbeck shares his 15-year journey building Local News Now, a successful media company with multiple publications in the DC area. He explains the differences between newsletter-first and website-first approaches, revenue diversification strategies, and how automation has been critical to his success. Scott discusses his multi-faceted revenue approach including programmatic advertising, direct sales, self-serve options, and membership programs.

For those considering the technical aspects of running a local media business, Scott breaks down his tech stack using WordPress, MailChimp, Airtable, and Zapier to create efficient workflows. He emphasizes quality local content while being strategic about operations to build a sustainable business that serves the community for years to come.

Connect with Scott Brodbeck on Twitter @ScottBrodbeck or visit his company website at LNN.co. Check out his flagship site ARLnow.com to see his local news approach in action.

#LocalNews

#MediaBusiness

#NewsletterStrategy

#LocalJournalism

#MediaMonetization

#ContentAutomation

#DigitalPublishing

#LocalMedia

#AudienceGrowth
#RevenueModels

Entrepreneur Trenton Hughes shares how he grew Wilmi Weekly to 10,000 subscribers in Wilmington, North Carolina. In this conversation with TJ Larkin, Trenton reveals why local newsletters should be viewed as strategic community-building assets rather than quick revenue generators, focusing on creating long-term value.

The discussion covers content creation, social media acquisition, and brand development. They examine monetization challenges and explore alternatives including events and partnerships. Both hosts address AI competition and explain why authentic local presence provides a sustainable advantage in the evolving media landscape.

Trenton Hughes is a serial entrepreneur who currently focuses on community-building ventures in Wilmington, NC. Connect with Trenton on X at @TrentJHughes to learn more about his community-focused approach to business development through Wilmi Weekly and Tribe, his support community for entrepreneurs.

#LocalNewsletter

#CommunityBuilding

#SmallBusiness

#Entrepreneurship

#EmailMarketing

#LocalMedia

#ContentCreation

#DigitalMarketing

#BusinessStrategy

#CommunityEngagement

Feeling stagnant with newsletter revenue? TJ Larkin explains a new path: charge $300 for a half-day, face-to-face crash course on ChatGPT basics, marketed straight to the subscribers who already trust him.

The episode breaks down his market-validation call with another publisher, the city-government referral loop, and why timing finally favors beginner AI education. You’ll also hear a mini-tutorial on prompting ChatGPT to design your curriculum and v0 to spin up a sleek site that converts.

Takeaways: start small, iterate fast, and let each workshop seed future ad or consulting deals. Reach TJ directly via X/Twitter @TJLarkin23 to learn more or partner on local events.

#AI101 #LocalBusinessGrowth #NewsletterMonetization #FacebookAdsTips #NoCodeWebsites #SmallBusinessAI #DigitalMarketingStrategy #CreatorEconomy #WorkshopRevenue #TJLarkinPodcast

In this episode, TJ Larkin reconnects with John Apolinar of Scottsdale Scoop for a deep dive into practical strategies for growing a local newsletter business. They discuss what’s been working for John over the past two months, particularly his high-performing combination of Instagram DMs and in-person networking through the Chamber of Commerce.

John breaks down how he tailors quick, engaging Instagram messages to reach high-ticket local businesses like med spas, lawyers, and luxury home builders. He also shares how he builds meaningful relationships at local events without coming off as salesy—and why that authenticity pays off. The two also explore the value of exclusivity in ad deals and pitching annual sponsorships with real marketing ROI.

Whether you're building a local media brand or just looking to improve your ad sales approach, this episode is full of smart, actionable ideas. Connect with John Apolinar on Instagram @scottsdalescoop or learn more about his newsletter at Scottsdale Scoop.

#LocalMedia

#NewsletterMarketing

#ScottsdaleScoop

#AdSalesStrategy

#InstagramMarketing

#LocalBusinessGrowth

#ChamberOfCommerce

#PodcastMarketing

#ContentMonetization

#MediaEntrepreneur

In this episode, TJ Larkin is joined once again by Landon from Wichita Life—a returning guest and a pioneer in the local newsletter space. They dive deep into the operational side of running a successful local media business, including ad placement strategies, pricing models, and campaign management using simple tools like Google Sheets.

Landon shares his evolution from an Instagram account to a full-fledged media brand with 30,000 email subscribers and multiple recurring sponsors like the City of Wichita. He breaks down how he sells primary, secondary, and baseline ads, how he prices them, and how he juggles ad slots across four weekly newsletters.

He also details the process of launching a job board using Niceboard and how it contributes passive income while requiring minimal overhead. Plus, they talk event strategy—from annual meetups to innovative concepts like "Pitch a Friend" dating events—all aimed at increasing community engagement and brand visibility.

Contact Landon / Wichita Life:

Website: wichitalifeict.com

Job Board: jobs.wichitalifeict.com

Instagram: @wichitalifeict

#NewsletterBusiness

#LocalMedia

#WichitaLife

#CreatorEconomy

#EmailMarketing

#DigitalAds

#JobBoard

#CommunityEvents

#MediaMonetization

#ContentCreation

Local‑media veteran Kyle Scott joins TJ Larkin to unpack how a tiny beach‑town newsletter ballooned into a 17,000‑subscriber powerhouse—and why owning your audience matters more than ever in 2025. From his Philly sports‑blog roots to mastering Beehive, Kyle reveals the playbook for transforming passion projects into real businesses.

He breaks down the forks in the road every publisher faces: stay hyper‑local and become the town’s go‑to voice, spin off a related business, or roll multiple newsletters into a regional network that attracts five‑ and six‑figure advertisers. You’ll hear battle‑tested tactics with Facebook ads, savvy survey questions, and the surprising power of IRL events.

Key takeaways include using newsletters as leverage for partnerships, why B2B niches can out‑earn B2C, and practical ways AI can act as your research assistant—without dulling your original voice. Expect a candid look at revenue models, community building, and surviving algorithm shifts.

Guest contacts: Follow Kyle on X @KyleScottL, listen to the Monetize Media podcast, and explore his newest venture at BuyingSandlot.com.

#LocalNewsletter

#MediaEntrepreneurship

#BeehiveTips

#AudienceGrowth

#B2BMarketing

#YouthSportsBusiness

#KyleScott

#MonetizeMedia

#BuyingSandlot

#TJTalks