Why Don't You Have a Newsletter?

It's a no-brainer.

I just returned home from one of the most impactful experiences of my life so far – I helped dozens of like-minded people reach closer to their goals in one hour, and that service feels empowering.

I’m buzzing with joy and gratitude.

Just one year ago, I made a promise to teach people about the power of newsletters.

This past week, I made good on my word.

It all started in Cleveland, Ohio

Me, Nabou, Nic and I arriving in … Cleveland!?

In 2024, I had this idea to help people build an empire from their laptops.

I figured that, if I were given time and a room of willing listeners, I could bring the revolution of independent media to my community.

And that’s exactly what ended up happening.

Me, in teaching mode.

I had just been gaining momentum with my own newsletter, Down to Earth, when I decided to help others do the same.

I consulted with Leah Mallory, a journalist friend of mine, about moderating a panel at the next National Association of Black Journalists Convention.

She was hesitant.

“I have no experience with moderation or public speaking,” she squirmed. “And I don’t even have a newsletter.” The power of doubt is real.

When I realized that Leah’s unfamiliarity with this subject was probably common throughout our community, I knew for certain that a panel was necessary, and that she would be a great representative to bridge that knowledge gap.

Leah and I in action. No doubt in sight.

We agreed to work on the project, and steadily moved the progress forward.

During the preceding months, I had warm visions of others learning key insights to building their own brands: creating passive income, finding their voice as writers and content creators, and rejecting the algorithm-driven status quo of 2025.

These bold notions fired me up to create a visual and interactive presentation that no beginner or seasoned expert could forget.

Last week, I ventured down to Cleveland (never thought I’d say that) for the 2025 NABJ Convention, and made that dream a reality.

On the third day, Leah and I organized a panel of experts on newsletters to share our guidance and insider tips, armed and ready to breathe life into those who dare to be great.

The event was a huge success, from the large crowd of attendance to the feedback we’ve been hearing since then.

The newsletter squad: Leah, Gavin, Paige, and Red.

It’s incredibly gratifying to know that our hard work paid off.

Our efforts are affecting positive change for other journalists and cause-based organizations across the nation, and it’s showing in tangible ways.

Real impact.

Hella impact.

I want this knowledge to inspire you in a similar way, so I’m sharing some of the highlights below, along with the full recap of the event on Youtube. 

If you’re looking to grow a media empire, build a brand, sell a product, or simply share your writing with your chose loved ones, respond to this email – I’ll you’d like the full slide deck in PDF.

Your 3-Minute Newsletter Workshop

Before we get into the good stuff, (giving you freedom and making money) let’s first cover the ABC’s of newsletters.

You read Down to Earth, but what goes on behind the scenes? 

Now that you fully understand the basics, let’s talk about the power you’ll gain from having your own newsletter 🔋

 An email list is like a massive school of fish. A newsletter is like the net that captures the whole school. What will you do with your yield?

Not convinced? ⬇️

I’ll put it to you this way.

A newsletter, especially when done with intention, is the most powerful digital tool for showcasing, marketing or promoting anything, and you’re in charge of the whole show. No bosses, tech maniacs or nagging rules to restrict you.

Newsletters are so powerful compared to the limited scope of social media – on Instagram in 2025, you’re lucky if your vacation photo dump even crosses to your grandma’s feed.

Best believe she won’t miss that email.

While I do encourage you to watch the full panel replay on YouTube (so, so many gems in there) I understand we’re all strapped for time. 

That’s why I’m going to bring the experience to you – we’re going to play the same game that we did in Cleveland, right now …

Are you ready?

Ideation is the first step towards a goal, and you’re already past the creation stage.

The sky is the limit for you! 

All you need to do now is jump on Substack and write away.

You’ll have a loyal subscriber in me, and a world of support from Down to Earth 🌎

Proud of what you’ve created? Reply to this email with your work, and I’ll give you quality feedback on it.

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