|
Top stories for bloggers, newsletter writers, and content creators.
|
|
|
If there is an article you think should be included in this roundup, please reply with a link. |
|
|
No. 1: WordPress vs. WP Engine Clash
There's a fierce drama unfolding in the world of WordPress—one that content creators need to keep an eye on.
WordPress founder Matt Mullenweg and WP Engine, a popular managed hosting service for WordPress sites, are locked in a heated battle involving trademarks, money, and control.
It all started when Mullenweg accused WP Engine of turning off key WordPress features, misleading users with its branding, and not contributing enough to the open-source project. WP Engine shot back, sending a cease-and-desist letter and claiming Mullenweg was pushing them to pay for trademark licenses. Things escalated, and Mullenweg banned WP Engine from accessing WordPress core updates, breaking many sites.
While the ban was lifted briefly, the tension is far from settled. Developers are worried that WP Engine's struggle might spill over to other hosting providers and projects. Some question how much power Automattic—Mullenweg's company—should have over something that's supposed to be open-source.
For creators earning revenue through WordPress, this fight could affect how you manage your site and the tools you rely on. It's clear that with legal battles looming, this story is far from over, and the ripple effects could be felt across the WordPress ecosystem.
|
|
|
No. 2: X Block Changes Spark Uproar
Significant changes are coming to X's block feature, shaking things up for creators, especially those with large followings.
Soon, blocking someone on X won't stop that person from viewing your posts. Blocked users will be able to see what you post while being prevented from replying directly—but they can still stir things up in the comments of other people's replies.
This action has some users concerned about online safety, but it is ultimately a good move for free speech, given that public figures have been using the blocking feature as a form of censorship.
|
|
|
No. 3: Navigating CBD Advertising Restrictions
If you're a content creator looking to promote CBD products, advertising can feel more like walking a tightrope.
Although the CBD market is set to explode—expected to hit $36.6 billion by 2033—most big platforms are still wary of allowing ads. This leaves folks in the CBD space navigating a maze to find out where to advertise, according to the Paved Blog.
Google and TikTok? Pretty strict. Google allows CBD ads under specific conditions, but only for topicals and only in a few places like California and Colorado. TikTok plays it a bit softer with topical CBD products, but anything more than that is off-limits.
Meta (Facebook and Instagram) is in the middle ground, requiring preapproval through LegitScript to advertise CBD. However, email marketing opens up more flexibility. Platforms such as AWeber and MailerLite are CBD-friendly.
Meanwhile, X is one of the most lenient, allowing certain CBD products to be promoted to pre-approved audiences in certain areas. Sponsoring newsletters in cannabis-friendly publications is also a golden opportunity for those looking to directly tap into niche, engaged audiences.
For creators navigating these waters, knowing your options is the first step toward staying compliant and growing your audience.
|
|
|
No. 4: Fundmates Offers Cash Advances, No Control
If you're a creator looking to take your content to the next level but struggling with cash flow, Fundmates might be worth a look.
This financial services company, founded in 2022, specializes in giving YouTubers (and creators in general) an advance on their AdSense earnings, up to 14 times their monthly revenue. What sets Fundmates apart?
Unlike traditional lenders or other creator-focused companies that buy a piece of your content's future or take control of your channel's direction, Fundmates offers what it calls true partnerships and mentorship, without touching ownership or licensing.
Creators like automotive YouTuber Joshua Acosta have found this a game-changer. Acosta secured a lump-sum loan with flexible repayment tied to the success of his channel. No credit score hit, no endless bank meetings. Instead, Fundmates just looks at a creator's analytics to gauge potential.
The company has already dished out over $25 million this year and plans to fork out another $30 million by the end of 2024, all while helping mid-size creators grow 30-60% within months. For growing creators who need a financial nudge but don't want to lose control over their brand, Fundmates could be the answer to next-level success.
|
|
|
No. 5: Optimize Flows, Sequences Optional
When someone subscribes to your email list, what happens next? You've probably heard folks mention "Welcome Flows" and "Welcome Sequences."
They sound similar, but there's a key difference, according to Mike Romaine. A Welcome Flow is simply your landing page plus the first email a subscriber gets. Meanwhile, a Welcome Sequence—a chain of follow-up emails—digs deeper.
It's tempting to jump straight into full sequences, but guess what? They aren't mandatory. In fact, many top-tier creators like Justin Welsh and Alex Garcia thrive with just an optimized Welcome Flow, not an elaborate series of emails.
That said, a Welcome Sequence can help build trust, establish your authority, and get your audience used to seeing your name. It's also a smart way to track engagement if you run ads.
Take Katelyn Bourgoin, for example. She runs a three-email Welcome Sequence packed with value, surprises, and branding touches like an unexpected freebie and a poll.
If your goal is to get your subscribers used to hearing from you and keep them engaged—without diving into a hard sale—her approach is a great model.
Ultimately, creators should prioritize what fits their goals. Sequenced or not, it's about delivering something valuable that meets your audience where they are.
|
|
|