Local Media HQ

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.

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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!

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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.

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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