8 + Bonus Esoteric Growth Hacks to Supercharge Your Website or Blog

Alright, let me cut through the noise and get straight to the point.

The internet’s become a battlefield of attention, and we’re all caught in the crossfire. Ads are everywhere, AI-generated content is flooding every corner, and genuine creativity is getting buried under mountains of digital garbage.

I’ve been documenting this descent into madness through my recent articles. “Ads are Cancer” exposed how pay-per-click ads are destroying our online experience – 99% irrelevant, 100% intrusive. Content creators have lost the plot, thinking more ads equal more sales. Spoiler: it doesn’t.

Then came “AI is Shit” – a brutal takedown of our current content landscape. We’ve reached a point where people aren’t even generating original ideas anymore. They’re asking AI to do the thinking, the writing, the entire creative process. Ten-second articles that have all the depth of a puddle.

The result? Growing a business is like trying to swim through quicksand. More ads, more AI-generated noise, less actual value.

But here’s the thing – it doesn’t have to be this way.

We don’t want intrusion ads. We want content. Real, genuine, human content that speaks to us, connects with us, makes us feel something.

In this article, we’re going to cut through the bullshit. I’ll show you how to create content that turns strangers into friends, and friends into customers. No tricks, no gimmicks – just solid, human-centered growth strategies.

Building Your Content Home Base: Why a Central CMS Matters

Stage 1 is all about having a solid home base for your content, and WordPress is my go-to choice. It’s come a long way from its humble beginnings and can handle even the busiest blogs without breaking a sweat.

Now, you might be wondering, “Why bother with my own blog when I could just focus on Facebook, Twitter, and other social media platforms?” It’s a fair question, but here’s the deal: while social media is great for reaching people, it’s not smart to build your entire online presence on someone else’s turf.

Think about it. Why would you want to spend all your time and effort building up Zuckerberg’s platform? These social media giants have a nasty habit of throttling your content reach unless you pay up. And God forbid you get locked out of your account or post something that gets you banned – suddenly, you’re de-platformed and all that hard work goes down the drain.

Don’t get me wrong, we absolutely should be active on all the major platforms. They’re fantastic for getting your content out there and connecting with your audience. But the key is to use them as a means to an end – driving traffic back to your own site.

Having your own blog isn’t just futureproof and sensible, it’s good business. There’s huge monetary value in a popular blog that you own and control. It’s an asset that grows over time, unlike your social media following which could disappear overnight if the platform decides to change its rules or your audience decides to migrate to another.

Plus, when you have your own site, you make the rules. You decide how your content is presented, how you interact with your audience, and how you monetize your work. You’re not at the mercy of some algorithm that could change on a whim and tank your visibility.

So yeah, use social media to your advantage, but always remember – your blog is your home base. It’s where you have full control, where you can truly express your voice, and where you can build something that lasts. That’s why having a central CMS like WordPress is so crucial. It’s the foundation of your online presence, and everything else should be built to support and drive traffic back to it.

So the key is to start the process with great content. That can be in the form of relevant articles, videos, or giveaways. I cover this in depth in “AI is Shit,” so this article is about what to do with it once we’ve created something of real value.

And I want to be clear. These are real-world, hardcore growth hacks. I’ve been in the trenches using them. This isn’t some generic list of actions with no value whatsoever, like “go out and find influencers” blah blah. Take each hack and leverage it to the full.

We’re talking about strategies that actually move the needle. I’ve tested these myself, refined them, and seen real results. These aren’t just theories or rehashed advice you’ve heard a million times before. These are actionable, proven tactics that can help you cut through the noise and get your content in front of the right eyes.

So hop aboard the gravy train. We’re about to dive into some serious growth strategies that can take your content from hidden gem to can’t-miss sensation. Whether you’re a seasoned content creator or just starting out, these growth hacks can help you amplify your reach and build a genuine connection with your audience.

Let’s get into it.

1. Reddit Strategy: Navigating the Minefield

I’ll be the first to admit that I’m relatively new to Reddit, and honestly, it can be a bit… well, ‘anal’. Getting your post removed or being banned is as easy as sneezing in the wrong direction. The audience is a mixed bunch, and the rules can feel like they were written by a committee of particularly pedantic lawyers.

But here’s the thing – after some trial and error, I’ve found a way to get traction without upsetting the Reddit overlords. And trust me, it’s worth the effort.

First off, forget everything you know about self-promotion. Reddit hates it with a passion. I learned this the hard way when I tried posting highly relevant, high-quality articles with links to my blog on targeted subs. Boom! Banned faster than you can say “karma”.

The golden rule of Reddit: content stays in the Reddit ecosystem.

After a disastrous start, I nearly threw in the towel. I mean, what’s the point of contributing to a community if there’s no reward, right? But then I noticed something interesting happening.

What seems to work is what I call “growth by osmosis”. Here’s the strategy:

Contribute Valuable Content: When you consistently add value to subreddits, you’ll start seeing traffic to your own content. It’s subtle, but it works.
Set Up Your Profile: Create your own profile and subreddit. This gives you a space to post your own articles without fear of bans.
Mix It Up: Don’t just post your own stuff. Share other relevant content too. In my niche (motivation), I’ve found that the odd inspirational post can be extremely popular.
Engage Genuinely: Spend time in the communities before even thinking about promotion. Comment, upvote, be a real part of the conversation.
Use Text Posts: When you do share your content, do it as a text post with added value, not just a link. Summarize key points, start a discussion.
Target Niche Subreddits: Find the subs that align closely with your blog’s topic. r/bloggers and r/blogging are good starts, but dig deeper into your specific niche.
Follow the Rules: Each subreddit has its own rules. Read them. Follow them. Love them.
Build Karma: Focus on building up your karma score through genuine engagement before you start sharing your own content.
Use Reddit’s Features: Utilize Reddit’s various features like AMAs (Ask Me Anything) or “Best Of” compilations to showcase your expertise.
Be Patient: Reddit success doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a long game, but it can pay off big time.

Remember, Reddit is a community first and a promotion platform second (or third, or fourth). Treat it as such, and you’ll find it can be an incredibly powerful tool for driving traffic and building a loyal audience. Just be prepared for a learning curve – and maybe a few bumps along the way.

2. LinkedIn: The Slow-Burn Traffic Generator

Posting on LinkedIn can be really frustrating and, at first, seem like a total waste of time. Engagement can be incredibly low, and despite having nearly 13k followers, I often find myself with virtually zero interaction. But I still post. I’ve created a highly detailed personal profile, as well as a company profile and a newsletter.

I also use LinkedIn’s article tool to generate decent reads. After crafting my content, I share it in relevant groups. Some of these groups have millions of members, yet even the most popular posts might only get a few hundred likes. So why do I bother? Because LinkedIn is part of a holistic strategy.

John Paul Getty once said,

“I would rather have 1% of 100 people’s efforts than 100% of my own.”

Each post may only get a few eyeballs, but they compound over time. I always add a “Read More” link back to the original article, creating another tributary to the river of traffic we’re generating.

There’s an added bonus: these articles can appear in search results. If Google isn’t ranking a particular piece, it may still show up through LinkedIn articles, directing traffic back to my site.

Here’s how I approach LinkedIn effectively:

Create Carousel Posts: Summarize key points from your blog in visually appealing slides. This format grabs attention and makes complex ideas digestible.
Use Hashtags Strategically: Incorporate 3-5 relevant hashtags per post to increase visibility. Mix broad and niche tags to reach different audience segments.
Engage with Comments Quickly: Responding promptly to comments boosts your post’s visibility in the algorithm. It shows you’re active and encourages more interaction.
Leverage LinkedIn’s Article Feature: Repurpose your blog content into articles tailored for the LinkedIn audience. This not only showcases your expertise but also drives traffic back to your main site.
Join Relevant Groups: Participate in groups related to your niche. Share insights and engage with members before promoting your own content.
Post Consistently: Regular posting helps keep you on your audience’s radar. Aim for quality over quantity; even if engagement is low initially, persistence pays off.
Analyze Performance: Keep track of which types of posts gain traction and adjust your strategy accordingly. Experiment with different formats and topics to see what resonates best.
Network Authentically: Build relationships with other professionals in your field. Genuine connections can lead to increased visibility for your content through shares and recommendations.

Pro Tips:

Think long-term strategy
Quality over quantity
Consistency matters more than viral posts

Even if it feels like a slow burn at times, remember that every little bit adds up. LinkedIn may not deliver instant results, but it’s about building professional relationships and establishing yourself as a thought leader in your niche over time. By consistently providing value and engaging with your audience, you can turn this platform into a powerful tool for driving traffic to your content and growing your brand.

3. YouTube Shorts: The Unexpected Traffic Goldmine

I’ve always dabbled in YouTube with numerous channels, but let me tell you, it’s a hell of an investment in time and effort to get any traction. Some videos take off, and the ones you think will be viral? They crash and burn.

I’m not good in front of the camera, so I’ll never be a ‘YouTuber’. And besides, I’m getting a bit too old to pull off the whole influencer look.

But here’s the thing – not being a great presenter doesn’t mean you’re out of the game. Thanks to AI, we’ve got a whole new world of content creation opening up. There’s a real trend towards presenter-less channels, and when they’re done well, they absolutely crush the mediocre content out there.

Enter YouTube Shorts – my latest secret weapon.

I discovered that I don’t need to be a camera-ready personality to create engaging content. With AI animation tools, I can transform my blog posts into quick, punchy videos that actually grab attention. My “AI is Shit” article? Turned it into a 30-second Short that took me maybe half an hour to put together.

There are many tools to create your YouTube Shorts – I’m currently using Invideo.

Here’s an awesome overview: Invideo Tutorial

That Short became my secret weapon. Here’s how I’ve been leveraging it:

30-Second Summaries: I break down my blog posts into bite-sized video chunks. It’s like a movie trailer for my articles. Just the juicy bits to get people hooked.
Eye-Candy Thumbnails: I learned the hard way that a blurry screenshot doesn’t cut it. Now I use bold colors and snappy text. It’s amazing how a decent thumbnail can make people stop scrolling. Just think about what stops you scrolling on the YouTube feed.
Call-to-Action that Works: YouTubers do this for a reason – it get’s on my nerves but the stupid thing is a short, polite CTA works. I don’t actually like the term CTA. Remember, this isn’t bash them over the head intrusion advertising. We’re simply walking our viewer on a journey and the ‘Read More’ is a simple hand-holding next step. At the end of each Short, I hit ’em with a clear CTA (next steps). “Want the full scoop? Check out the link in my bio!” Simple, but effective.
Hashtags: I jumped on the trending hashtag bandwagon. It felt a bit like selling out at first, but hey, if #AIfail gets me views, I’m all for it.
Engagement is Key: I make a point to reply to comments. Even the trolls. Especially the trolls. It keeps the algorithm happy and builds a community.
Consistency is Queen: I aim for one Short a week. It’s not always easy, but it keeps my channel alive and kicking.
Mix It Up: Sometimes I’ll throw in a behind-the-scenes look at my writing process. People seem to dig the “real” stuff.
Numbers Don’t Lie: I keep a close eye on which Shorts perform best. It’s like a game now – can I beat last week’s views?

But here’s where we leverage our efforts – these Shorts aren’t just for YouTube. I’ve been repurposing them across other platforms. Instagram, TikTok, even LinkedIn.

The best part? Each article gives me the brief for the Short. It’s content inception.

Now, I’m not saying I’m a YouTube guru. Far from it. But I’ve found a way to make it work for me without spending hours in front of a camera or learning complex video editing. It’s quick, it’s effective, and dare I say it – it’s even a bit fun.

So if you’re sitting on the fence about YouTube Shorts, take it from a former skeptic – give it a shot. You might just surprise yourself. And who knows? You might find yourself with a whole new audience eager to read your blog.

Remember, it’s not about being perfect. It’s about getting your message out there. And if a 60-second video can do that? Well, that’s a win in my book.

4. Repurposing Your YouTube Short: Maximizing Reach Across Platforms

Now that you’ve created a killer YouTube Short, the next step is to maximize its potential by repurposing it across different platforms. This is where the real magic happens. You’ve put in the effort to make something engaging, so why not leverage that content to reach a wider audience?

First up, let’s talk about TikTok. This platform thrives on short, snappy videos, making it a perfect fit for your YouTube Short. Simply upload the video, and you’re off to the races. Use relevant hashtags to increase visibility, and consider adding trending sounds to give it that extra boost. TikTok’s algorithm favors engaging content, so don’t forget to interact with comments and encourage viewers to check out your blog for more in-depth information.

But TikTok isn’t the only game in town. Here are some other platforms where you can share your YouTube Short and expand your reach:

Instagram Reels: Just like TikTok, Instagram Reels allows you to share short videos with a massive audience. Upload your Short here as well. Use eye-catching captions and hashtags to draw in viewers. You can also share it on your main feed or stories for even more exposure.
Vimeo: particularly valuable for SEO, as it allows you to optimize video titles, descriptions, and tags with relevant keywords, enhancing discoverability on both the platform and search engines.
Facebook: While Facebook’s organic reach has declined, it’s still worth sharing your Short there. Post it on your profile and relevant groups. Engage with any comments to foster discussion and drive traffic back to your blog.
LinkedIn: Don’t overlook LinkedIn! Share your Short as part of a post or in relevant professional groups. Given the platform’s focus on professional development, position your content as valuable insights related to your niche.
Pinterest: Create a short video pin using your YouTube Short. Pinterest users love video content, especially if it’s informative or inspirational. Link back to your blog post in the description for added traffic.
Twitter: Share a snippet of your Short on Twitter along with a link to the full video on YouTube or directly to your blog post. Use relevant hashtags and tag any influencers or accounts that might find it interesting.
Your Email Newsletter: If you have an email list, include the Short in your next newsletter. It’s a great way to engage subscribers and direct them back to your blog for more detailed content.
Website Integration: Embed the YouTube Short directly into a related blog post on your site. This not only enhances the article but also keeps visitors engaged longer.
Community Forums: Share the video in niche-specific forums or communities where relevant discussions are happening. Just be sure to follow community guidelines regarding self-promotion.

By repurposing your YouTube Short across these platforms, you’re not just maximizing its reach; you’re creating multiple touchpoints for potential readers and viewers to discover your content. Each platform has its own audience and vibe, so tailor your approach accordingly while maintaining the core message of your original video.

Remember, the goal is to create a cohesive strategy that drives traffic back to your blog while building brand awareness across various channels. With each share and engagement, you’re compounding your efforts, turning that single piece of content into a powerful tool for growth. So get out there and start sharing!

5. Quora Marketing: Engaging and Driving Traffic

Let’s dive into the deep, hardcore Quora hacks that can truly build a presence and drive significant traffic. Here’s how I’ve been leveraging Quora to its full potential:

Quora: The Untapped Goldmine for Traffic

I’ll be honest, I initially underestimated Quora. The go to advice is to jump on there and start answering questions. Whoopiefikindo! But once I started digging deeper, I realized it’s a powerhouse for building authority and driving traffic. Here’s my no-holds-barred approach:

Quora Spaces: Your Personal Fiefdom
I’ve set up multiple Quora Spaces aligned with my blog topics. These are active communities. I treat each Space like its own mini-blog, with a consistent posting schedule and a clear theme.
Content Repurposing on Steroids
Every blog post I write gets repurposed for Quora. But I don’t just copy-paste. I rewrite it in a Q&A format, often breaking one post into multiple Quora answers. This multiplies my content’s reach without duplicate content issues.
The Collaboration Game
I’ve reached out to other experts in my niche and invited them to be collaborators in my Spaces. This not only adds credibility but also expands my reach to their followers. It’s a win-win.
Strategic Question Asking
I don’t just answer questions; I ask them too. I ask questions that I know I can answer comprehensively with a link back to my blog. It’s like setting up my own alley-oop. (If you don’t know what an alley-oop is, then post a question on Quora!)
The Long-Form Advantage
Quora loves detailed, in-depth answers. I write posts that are 1000+ words, packed with value. These often get featured in Quora Digests, exponentially increasing visibility.
The Comment Hustle
I don’t just post and ghost. I actively engage with every comment on my answers and in my Spaces. This boosts engagement signals and keeps my content alive in the feed.
Cross-Promotion Strategy
I link between my various Quora answers and Spaces, creating a web of content that keeps users engaged with my material longer.
The Quora Partner Program
I’ve joined the Quora Partner Program, which pays for asking good questions. This not only provides a small revenue stream but also incentivizes me to create questions that drive engagement.
Analytics Deep Dive
I obsessively track which types of questions and answers drive the most traffic back to my blog. I use this data to refine my strategy continually.
Seasonal and Trending Topics
I keep a close eye on trending topics in my niche and quickly create content around them. Being early on trending topics can lead to massive visibility spikes.
The Bio Hack
My Quora bio is a carefully crafted funnel. I use it to showcase my expertise and guide people to my most valuable free resources, which then lead them to my blog.

Here’s the thing about Quora – it’s a long game. You won’t see results overnight, but if you’re consistent and strategic, the compound effect is incredible. I’ve seen answers I wrote months ago suddenly gain traction and drive thousands of visitors to my blog.

So don’t just dip your toes in Quora – dive in headfirst. Create, engage, analyze, and refine. It’s a powerful tool in your arsenal if you’re willing to put in the effort.

6. Pinterest: The Subtle Art of Visual Content Leverage

Pinterest isn’t just another social media platform; it’s a visual search engine with immense potential for driving targeted traffic. In fact during my research for this article I found that many content creators cited Pinterest as their best driver of traffic. I’ve certainly seen consistent views in the tens of thousands for a number of pins over many, many months.

Here’s how to tap into its deeper capabilities:

Content Multiplication Principle
For each blog post, create a minimum of 5-7 distinct pin designs. This isn’t about quantity, but about capturing different visual preferences and search intents. Analyze which designs resonate most with your audience and iterate accordingly.
Keyword Alchemy
Craft descriptions that seamlessly blend natural language with strategic keywords. Dive deep into Pinterest’s search suggestions to uncover long-tail keywords that your competitors might be overlooking. Your goal is to align your content with the user’s search journey.
Board Ecosystem Development
Think of your boards as interconnected ecosystems. Create a hierarchy of boards, from broad topics to highly specific niches. This structure not only aids in organization but also in capturing a wider range of search queries.
Group Board Infiltration Strategy
Don’t just join group boards; become an invaluable contributor. Share a mix of your content and curated pins from others. Build relationships with board owners and other contributors. This long-term approach can lead to collaborative opportunities and expanded reach.
Idea Pins as Micro-Content Hubs
Utilize Idea Pins to create multi-layered content experiences. Break down complex blog posts into digestible segments, each building upon the last. Include actionable tips, visual guides, and compelling calls-to-action that guide users back to your blog.
Temporal Pinning Patterns
Analyze your Pinterest analytics to identify peak engagement times. Develop a pinning schedule that aligns with these patterns, but avoid rigid automation. Incorporate real-time pinning during trending events or discussions in your niche.
Visual SEO Optimization
Beyond keywords, focus on visual SEO. Use high-contrast images, legible fonts, and color schemes that stand out in Pinterest’s feed. Incorporate your blog’s branding subtly to build visual recognition over time.
Content Lifecycle Management
Implement a system for regularly refreshing and repinning older content. Update pins with new designs, tweak descriptions based on current trends, and repin to relevant boards. This keeps your content in circulation without appearing spammy.
Cross-Platform Content Synergy
Develop a strategy that integrates your Pinterest content with other platforms. Use Pinterest as a visual complement to your blog posts, YouTube videos, or podcast episodes. This creates a cohesive content experience across multiple touchpoints.
Engagement Depth Metrics
Look beyond surface-level metrics like repins and likes. Focus on engagement depth – how long users interact with your pins, click-through rates to your blog, and the quality of traffic (bounce rates, time on site) from Pinterest.

By implementing these strategies, you’re cultivating a visual ecosystem that continually drives targeted traffic to your blog. It’s about playing the long game, understanding the platform’s nuances, and creating content that resonates on a deeper level with your audience.

The true power of Pinterest lies in its ability to connect visual inspiration with actionable content. Your goal is to be the bridge between what users are searching for and the valuable content you provide on your blog.

7. Expanding Your Reach: Repurposing Content Across Multiple Platforms

This strategy is all about creating great content and then leveraging it to build a massive web of interconnected resources. While it requires effort, the beauty of this approach lies in its ability to yield maximum results at minimal cost. In fact, everything we’ve discussed so far is completely free and has the potential to deliver better results than most PPC campaigns. The goal here is to extract every last drop of value from your content without spreading yourself too thin.

1. Medium: The Intellectual’s Playground

Medium; it’s a content ecosystem.

Medium is a powerful platform for writers and content creators, offering a space where ideas can flourish and reach a broad audience. With over 100 million monthly readers, Medium provides significant visibility for your work. The platform allows users to publish articles, share stories, and engage with readers in a clean, minimalist environment. Its appeal lies in its focus on quality content over social media noise, making it an attractive option for those looking to share thoughtful insights. Medium has cultivated a community of writers and readers who value in-depth discussions and diverse perspectives. With features like the Partner Program, writers can monetize their content based on engagement, further incentivizing quality contributions. As more people seek platforms that prioritize meaningful content and connection, Medium continues to grow as a hub for creative expression and intellectual discourse.

Here’s how to leverage it:

Use their import tool to republish your blog posts, maintaining your SEO juice.
Join popular publications in your niche. Getting featured can exponentially increase your reach.
Tap into Medium’s Partner Program. It’s not going to make you rich, but it’s a nice bonus for your efforts.
Create “Series” for interconnected pieces, keeping readers engaged across multiple articles.

2. LinkedIn Articles: Professional Reach

LinkedIn’s often overlooked as a content platform, but it’s gold for B2B.

LinkedIn is a powerful professional networking platform that has evolved into a significant space for content sharing and thought leadership. With over 900 million members worldwide, LinkedIn offers vast reach and engagement opportunities for individuals and businesses alike. Originally designed for job seekers and recruiters, it has transformed into a hub for professionals to share insights, articles, and industry news. Users can publish long-form content directly on the platform, allowing them to showcase their expertise and connect with a targeted audience. LinkedIn’s algorithm promotes quality content, making it easier for posts to gain visibility among relevant connections. Additionally, features like LinkedIn Groups foster community engagement around specific interests, further enhancing networking opportunities. As more professionals seek to establish their personal brands and connect with peers, LinkedIn remains an essential tool for driving traffic to blogs and expanding professional influence.

Repurpose your blog content into LinkedIn articles, tailoring the tone for a professional audience.
Use LinkedIn’s native video feature for short, punchy summaries of your longer content.
Engage with comments aggressively. LinkedIn’s algorithm rewards engagement.

3. Patreon: Monetizing Your Loyal Fanbase

Patreon’s not just for artists and YouTubers.

Patreon attracts a substantial audience, with over 200,000 active creators and millions of patrons supporting them. While exact visitor numbers fluctuate, estimates suggest that the platform has around 8 million monthly active users. This growing user base reflects a rising interest in subscription-based content models, where fans can directly support their favorite creators. By fostering a community where creators can share exclusive content, insights, and experiences, Patreon has established itself as a vital resource for those looking to monetize their creative endeavors while building meaningful connections with their audience.

Offer exclusive, expanded versions of your public content to paying subscribers.
Use it as a testing ground for new ideas before publishing them publicly.
Create tiered content levels, encouraging subscribers to upgrade for more in-depth material.

4. Flipboard: The Visual Curator’s Dream

Flipboard is a content curation platform that allows users to create personalized magazines by aggregating articles, blog posts, and multimedia from across the web. With over 30 million monthly active users, Flipboard is a hub for discovering and sharing content on a wide range of topics, making it an excellent tool for both content creators and readers. Users can follow specific interests, curate their own magazines, and share their collections with others. For content creators, Flipboard provides a unique opportunity to reach new audiences by submitting articles to relevant topics or creating themed magazines that showcase their work alongside other high-quality content. As the demand for curated content continues to grow, Flipboard remains a valuable resource for those looking to engage with an audience that appreciates quality information and diverse perspectives.

Flipboard’s often overlooked, but it’s a powerhouse for certain niches:

Create themed magazines that align with your blog categories.
Curate your own content alongside other high-quality pieces in your niche.
Use Flipboard’s “storyboard” feature to create visual narratives from your blog posts.

5. Mix (formerly StumbleUpon): The Discovery Engine

Mix is all about content discovery.

Mix is a content discovery platform that allows users to curate and share articles, blog posts, and multimedia from across the web. With an estimated 10 million monthly active users, Mix is a hub for discovering new content tailored to individual interests. Users can create personalized collections, follow specific topics, and engage with a community that shares their passions.

For content creators, Mix offers a unique opportunity to reach new audiences by submitting their articles and linking them to relevant topics. This not only increases visibility but also positions creators alongside other high-quality content in their niche.

Submit your articles to relevant categories.
Create collections around specific themes from your blog.
Engage with other users’ content to build your presence on the platform.

6. Quora Spaces: Q&A Meets Blogging

We’ve talked about Quora before, but Spaces deserve special mention.

Quora is a question-and-answer platform that allows users to ask questions, share knowledge, and engage in discussions on a wide range of topics. With over 300 million monthly unique visitors, Quora provides a vast audience for content creators and experts to showcase their expertise. Users can write detailed answers to questions, which can lead to significant visibility and traffic back to their blogs or websites. Quora’s format encourages quality contributions, allowing knowledgeable individuals to establish themselves as authorities in their fields. Additionally, the platform’s community-driven nature fosters engagement and interaction, making it a valuable resource for those looking to connect with like-minded individuals and drive traffic through thoughtful discourse.

Create a Space aligned with your blog’s niche.
Repurpose blog content into Q&A format for the Space.
Use Spaces to build a community around your content.

Substack’s blowing up, and for good reason.

Substack is a subscription-based platform that allows writers and creators to share their work directly with their audience. With over 1 million active creators and millions of subscribers, Substack provides a unique space for independent writers to monetize their content through paid newsletters. The platform enables users to build a direct relationship with their readers, offering exclusive content, insights, and updates. Substack’s user-friendly interface makes it easy for creators to publish and manage their newsletters, while its built-in payment system simplifies the monetization process. As more writers seek alternatives to traditional publishing models, Substack has emerged as a valuable tool for those looking to establish their voice and generate income from their writing.

Turn your blog posts into newsletter content.
Offer free and paid tiers to monetize your most dedicated readers.
Use Substack’s podcast feature to repurpose written content into audio.

8. Tumblr: The Comeback Kid

Don’t write off Tumblr just yet. It’s making a comeback.

Tumblr, once a dominant force in social media, is experiencing a resurgence as users seek more creative and expressive online spaces. Originally launched in 2007, Tumblr allowed users to share multimedia content, fostering vibrant communities of artists, writers, and fans. Despite facing challenges in the mid-2010s, including a decline in user engagement and controversies over content moderation, recent trends indicate that Tumblr is making a comeback. Its emphasis on creative freedom, niche communities, and user-friendly features has attracted a new wave of users looking for alternatives to mainstream platforms. As more people seek authentic connections and diverse content, Tumblr’s revival reflects a broader trend towards platforms that prioritize personal expression over commercial interests.

Perfect for visual or short-form content repurposing.
Great for building a following in creative or niche topics.
Use Tumblr’s reblog feature to create content chains.

9. Reddit: The Front Page of the Internet

We’ve covered Reddit before, but it’s worth mentioning for repurposing.

Reddit is a popular social media platform known as “The Front Page of the Internet,” where users can share content, engage in discussions, and ask questions across a vast array of topics. With over 430 million monthly active users, Reddit is a massive community that hosts thousands of subreddits, each dedicated to specific interests or themes. Users can post links, images, and text, and other members can upvote or downvote content, determining what rises to the top of the feed.

Create your own subreddit as a hub for your content.
Repurpose blog posts into AMAs (Ask Me Anything) sessions.
Use Reddit’s new “Predictions” feature for engaging, topic-related polls.

10. Mastodon: The Decentralized Twitter

Mastodon is a decentralized social media platform that has gained traction as an alternative to mainstream platforms like Twitter. As of late 2023, Mastodon boasts over 2 million active users across various independent servers, known as instances. This number reflects a growing interest in decentralized social networking, where users can join communities that align with their interests and values.

Mastodon’s appeal lies in its commitment to user privacy and control over content. Unlike traditional social media platforms that centralize data and monetization, Mastodon allows users to interact within their chosen instances while maintaining the ability to communicate across the entire network. This decentralized structure fosters a sense of community and encourages diverse discussions.

While Mastodon may not rival the sheer scale of giants like Facebook or Instagram, its user base is engaged and passionate about the platform’s principles. The growth of Mastodon signifies a shift towards more user-centric social media experiences, making it a noteworthy player in the evolving landscape of online communication.

For those looking to diversify from mainstream social media:

Find instances (servers) related to your niche.
Repurpose blog content into toot threads (similar to Twitter threads).
Use Mastodon’s federated nature to cross-pollinate content across instances.

New Platforms on The Block:

BlueSky is a decentralized social media platform that aims to provide a space for open and free communication, similar to Twitter but with a focus on user control and privacy. Developed by a team led by Jack Dorsey, co-founder of Twitter, BlueSky allows users to create and share content while maintaining ownership of their data. The platform is designed to encourage healthy conversations and reduce the negative aspects often associated with centralized social media.

In terms of sharing your articles, BlueSky can be a viable option if you’re looking for a community that values thoughtful discussion and engagement. Since it is still in its early stages, the audience may be smaller compared to more established platforms, but it offers a unique environment for connecting with like-minded individuals. By sharing your articles on BlueSky, you can tap into a growing network of users interested in diverse perspectives and foster meaningful interactions around your content.

Platforms to Approach with Caution:

Facebook: Still massive, but organic reach is abysmal. Use sparingly unless you’re willing to pay for ads.
Twitter: Great for engagement, terrible for driving traffic. Use for networking more than content distribution.
Instagram: Unless your content is highly visual, it’s a tough nut to crack for blog repurposing.

Dead Zones (Don’t Bother):

MySpace: It’s dead, Jim.
Google+: Shut down in 2019.
Friendster: Ceased operations years ago.

Remember, the key to effective repurposing isn’t just copying and pasting your content everywhere. It’s about adapting your message to fit each platform’s unique ecosystem and audience expectations. Quality over quantity always wins in the long run.

8. From Article to Audio: Leveraging the Power of Podcasting

You might think running a podcast alongside your blog would require jet fuel and a clone of yourself. But hold on – we’ve got a trick up our sleeve that’ll make you rethink everything.

Buzzsprout is a leading podcast hosting platform that simplifies the process of launching and managing podcasts. With over 100,000 active podcasts and millions of episodes hosted, Buzzsprout provides users with tools to distribute their content across major platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. The platform offers user-friendly features such as episode scheduling, detailed analytics, and customizable podcast websites, making it accessible for both novice and experienced podcasters. Buzzsprout also provides resources and educational materials to help creators grow their audience and improve their podcasting skills.

Remember that YouTube content we created? Well, it’s about to pull double duty. Here’s the game plan:

Buzzsprout: Your Podcast Hub
For just a few dollars a month, Buzzsprout becomes your podcast’s central command. It’s like having a personal podcast manager without the hefty salary.
Audio Extraction
Simply detach the audio from your YouTube video. Boom – you’ve got your podcast episode ready to go.
Distribution Made Easy
Buzzsprout isn’t just a hosting platform. It’s your ticket to the big leagues. With a few clicks, your podcast is distributed to major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more.
Text-to-Speech Magic
Got a killer article? Transform it into audio gold. Modern text-to-speech AI has come a long way. Gone are the days of robotic voices that sound like Darth Vader with a head cold. Today’s AI voices are so natural, you’d swear it was human.
Music to Your Ears
Add a touch of professionalism with copyright-free music available on YouTube. A little intro and outro music goes a long way in making your podcast sound polished.

The result? In literally 5 minutes, your article or video content can be transformed into a podcast episode, sitting pretty on all the main channels. It’s content repurposing at its finest.

Bonus: Podcast Promotion Hacks

Cross-promote on your blog and social media channels
Engage with listeners by reading comments or questions in future episodes
Collaborate with other podcasters in your niche for cross-pollination of audiences
Use audiograms (short audio clips with visuals) to tease episodes on social media
Submit your podcast to niche-specific directories beyond the major platforms

By leveraging your existing content for podcasting, you’re saving time and energy and you’re expanding your reach to an entirely new audience. Some people prefer reading, others watching, and many love listening. With this strategy, you’re catering to all preferences without tripling your workload.

Remember, the key is consistency. Even if you start small with weekly or bi-weekly episodes, regular content keeps your audience engaged and coming back for more. And who knows? Your podcast might just become the next big thing in your niche.

BONUS. Niche Forum Engagement: Turning Challenges into Opportunities

Let’s face it: engaging in niche forums can feel like herding cats. Many of us have been banned from forums for attempting to promote our content, and it often seems like the moderators are more interested in gatekeeping than fostering genuine discussions. But here’s the reality: if done correctly, engaging in forums can be a powerful growth hack to drive traffic to your blog.

Find Active Forums in Your Industry
Start by identifying forums that are vibrant and relevant to your niche. For instance, if you’re in tech, Stack Overflow is a goldmine. If you’re in health and wellness, look for specialized forums that cater to those topics. The key is to find communities where your expertise can shine.
Become a Regular Contributor
The first step to gaining credibility is to become an active member of the community. This means answering questions, providing valuable insights, and genuinely helping others without immediately promoting your own content. Build relationships and establish yourself as a go-to resource.
Include a Signature Link
Once you’ve established yourself as a helpful contributor, include a link to your blog in your forum signature. This subtle promotion allows interested readers to find your content without feeling like you’re shoving it down their throats. Just ensure that your signature complies with the forum’s rules regarding self-promotion.
Create Value-Driven Content
When you do share your blog posts, ensure they are relevant to the discussions happening in the forum. Instead of simply dropping a link, craft comprehensive responses that provide value and naturally incorporate links to your articles as additional resources.
Leverage Forum Threads for Blog Ideas
Use the questions and discussions happening in forums as inspiration for new blog posts. If you notice recurring questions or topics that generate significant interest, create content around those themes. This not only positions you as an authority but also drives traffic back to your blog when you share those posts in the forum.
Participate in Q&A Sessions
Some forums host Q&A sessions or AMAs (Ask Me Anything) where experts can answer community questions live. Participate actively in these sessions, providing thoughtful answers while subtly referencing your blog when relevant.
Monitor Engagement Metrics
Keep track of how much traffic is being driven from forums to your blog. Use tools like Google Analytics to see which forum links are generating clicks and adjust your strategy accordingly.
Be Patient and Persistent
Building a reputation in niche forums takes time. Don’t get discouraged by initial setbacks or bans; instead, focus on consistently providing value and engaging with the community.

While it may seem counterintuitive at first, niche forum engagement can indeed be a viable growth hack for driving traffic to your blog. It’s about creating genuine connections and offering real value rather than just pushing your content onto unsuspecting users. When approached with authenticity and patience, these platforms can become powerful allies in expanding your reach and establishing your authority in your field.

BONUS 2! Turn Your Article into A Course

With the aid of AI as a companion, it’s entirely feasible to expand on your great ideas and create a structured learning experience. However, it’s crucial to invest quality time into this process rather than simply hitting the “create me a course” button. As discussed in my article “AI is Shit,” while AI tools can enhance our content creation, they should not replace the human touch that makes our work authentic. For instance, this article was crafted entirely by me in just one day, utilizing Perplexity to assist with research and ensure accuracy without writing it for me. I wrote virtually every word and then ran it through AI for spelling, grammar and fack checks only. By leveraging AI for efficiency, you can focus on delivering a high-quality course that resonates with learners, combining your unique insights with the power of technology to create something truly valuable.

When considering the best platforms for turning your content into a course, several options stand out based on user success and engagement:

Teachable: Known for its user-friendly interface, Teachable allows creators to build and sell courses easily. Many successful instructors report high engagement levels due to its robust marketing tools and customizable features.
Thinkific: This platform offers similar capabilities to Teachable but is often praised for its flexibility in course design and student engagement features. Creators have seen success by leveraging Thinkific’s community-building tools.
Udemy: While it has a large audience with millions of students, many creators experience challenges with engagement and competition. Success on Udemy often requires additional marketing efforts to drive traffic to courses.
Kajabi: This all-in-one platform is favored by many successful entrepreneurs for its comprehensive marketing tools and membership site capabilities. Users appreciate the ability to create a full ecosystem around their courses.
Podia: Podia is gaining traction for its simplicity and focus on digital products, including courses, memberships, and downloads. Creators report good engagement due to its straightforward setup and community features.

Ultimately, the best platform depends on your specific needs, audience, and how much effort you’re willing to invest in marketing your course. Each platform has its strengths, so researching where others have found success can help you make an informed decision.

Wrapping it All Up

As we wrap up “Esoteric Growth Hacks to Supercharge Your Business,” it’s clear that we’ve covered a wealth of valuable strategies that can significantly impact your business’s growth. While implementing these hacks will require time and effort, the payoff is substantial. These techniques lay a strong foundation that can be leveraged in future PPC retargeting campaigns, creating a sustainable growth model. My strategy is to adopt as many of these growth hacks as possible to maximize your business potential.

A key performance indicator (KPI) to aim for is the ability to outsource the routine tasks—allowing you to focus on creating exceptional content while your media team handles distribution.

Best of luck as you embark on this journey, and I look forward to hearing about your successes!