—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. In this episode, we'll dissect the core principles that transformed Jon Elder's business from an idea into a thriving platform. We'll delve into the power of authenticity, strategic networking, and pursuing passion within the business world. These principles aren't just lessons from Jon's journey; they're actionable strategies that any entrepreneur can use to elevate their business. So, buckle up and get ready to learn how authenticity, strategic collaborations, and specialized focus can pave the way for your business success. Let's jump right in!—

—Today, we're diving into the intriguing journey of Jon Elder, the man behind Amazon Insiders, the fastest-growing Amazon Seller newsletter in America. Jon, a Seattle Seahawks fan at heart, has a story that's far from the usual, and I'm here to share it with you.—

—Jon started his Amazon journey back in twenty fourteen, with a humble golf tool priced at 24 ninety nine. Over the next five years, he bootstrapped and scaled five private label brands, amassing over 10 million in revenue. Not too shabby, right? But it didn't end there. Jon exited his Amazon business in late twenty nineteen for a hefty seven-figure sum.—

—After his exit, Jon felt a need for authentic Amazon consulting rooted in his vast experience. And so, Black Label Advisor was born. Since then, he's advised over 100 sellers from around the globe, helping them navigate the complex Amazon marketplace.—

—But Jon didn't stop there. Instead of launching just another generic marketing newsletter, he decided to create something special – Amazon Insiders. It's a micro-niche newsletter tailored specifically for private label Amazon sellers. And it's been a massive hit, attracting subscribers who are serious about their Amazon businesses.—

—So, how did Jon kickstart his journey? Well, it all began with Twitter, believe it or not. He used tools like Hypefury to promote his newsletter, building up a consistent stream of signups. Then, he ventured into newsletter swaps, collaborating with other newsletters targeting similar audiences. Jon also employed tools like Sparkloop to find more opportunities for cross-promotion.—

—But what really sets Jon apart is his commitment to showing authority, sharing his personal story, and being transparent about his past mistakes. This authentic approach has played a significant role in the rapid growth of Amazon Insiders.—


—The big question: How does Jon make money? Well, it's mainly through sponsorships and affiliates, with sponsorships accounting for around 90 percent of his revenue. These sponsors are typically software as a service companies that cater to Amazon sellers, offering services such as AI software, listing optimization, copywriting tools, and reimbursement software.—

—Jon charges anywhere from 500 dollars to 2 grand for sponsorships, depending on the level of exclusivity desired by the sponsor. And here's the kicker: Jon doesn't spend much time reaching out to secure these sponsorships. Instead, he relies on his excellent relationships with various software companies and some occasional tweets to attract potential sponsors.—

Currently, Jon's annual revenue hovers around one hundred fifty grand, and he's set some ambitious goals. He's aiming to ramp that up to 250 grand by next Christmas, while also aspiring to hit 100 thousand subscribers by that same date. It's an aggressive goal, but Jon is determined to make it happen with the right strategies.—

—Now, let's delve into a typical day in Jon's life as a solo founder. He manages consulting clients, handles email correspondence, and creates content. His workday spans about 4 to 5 hours, starting at 5 in the morning. While working from home can be a bit noisy with his wife homeschooling their kids, Jon wouldn't have it any other way. He relies on ConvertKit for his newsletter and maintains a streamlined operation to avoid the burden of full-time employees.—

—Jon has some sage advice for anyone looking to venture into a business like his: pursue your passion. Do what ignites that inner fire, even if it might not be the most lucrative path. Jon believes that true satisfaction comes from doing a job that brings great pleasure.—

—And with that, we've explored Jon Elder's remarkable journey in the world of Amazon sellers and the success of Amazon Insiders. —

—Let’s now break down the key principles that made Jon Elder's business a roaring success. These principles aren't just exclusive to his story; they're actionable strategies that any business owner can implement to thrive. Let's dive in.—

—Principle 1: Authenticity Builds Trust—

—One of the core reasons behind Amazon Insiders' success was Jon's commitment to authenticity. He shared his personal journey, his successes, and even his mistakes. By being genuine, he built trust with his audience.—

—In your business, be open about your journey. Share your challenges and triumphs on social media or in your newsletters. When customers see the human side of your brand, they connect with you on a deeper level, fostering trust and loyalty.—

—Principle 2: Strategic Networking and Collaboration—

—Jon leveraged social media, especially Twitter, and tools like Sparkloop for strategic networking. He collaborated with similar newsletters, tapping into existing audiences, and utilized referral programs effectively.—

—Network strategically within your industry. Attend conferences, join online forums, and use social media platforms to connect with influencers and potential collaborators. Look for genuine opportunities to collaborate, whether through joint ventures, co-marketing efforts, or referral programs. Building a network can open doors to new customers and partnerships.—

—Principle 3: Pursue Passion and Specialization—

—Jon's success story emphasizes the importance of pursuing one's passion and specializing in a niche. He created a micro-niche newsletter tailored specifically for private label Amazon sellers, catering to their unique needs and interests.—

—Find your passion within your business domain. Identify a specific niche or target audience that aligns with your passion and expertise. Specializing allows you to become an expert in that area, catering to a specific audience's needs effectively. Your passion will drive your commitment, making your business more authentic and appealing to your customers.—

—Incorporating these principles into your business strategy can create a powerful impact. Remember, authenticity, strategic networking, and pursuing your passion are not just buzzwords – they're the building blocks of a thriving business. —


—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.—