I have been thinking a lot lately about my business, and the different models that I use.
As most of you know, I am a BIG fan of recurring income. I have spent the last couple years developing very successful membership sites that have helped deploy this model.
I still operate some of them today, and I have also sold some in the past (for a very nice payday … 
)
However, it wasn’t until just recently that I have had second thoughts about this business model.
The money is great… don’t get me wrong… it’s actually not all about the money (let me explain this one)
You see… I just recently launched 3DayList.com, and I thought long and hard about how much I was going to charge people to access it.
It wasn’t until the VERY last minute that I decided to put it all up there for free. Some people thought I was crazy for doing this, because I spent countless hours developing that content.
Listbuilding is such a VITAL part of my business though, that I really wanted EVERYONE to have access to that product.
I didn’t want anyone to have ANY excuse to not be building a list, so I decided to release the product for free.
Yeah… I am sure that I sacrificed A LOT of money up front, but I have also really been able to help some people build their lists. People that might not have bought the product if I had tried to sell it are now building their own mailing lists, and I couldn’t be happier.
So, here is what I have been thinking about lately… I know this is going to sound crazy to some of you, but let me explain it…
I am thinking about offering most of my future sites and services completely FREE … that’s right… I am not going to charge you anything to access ALL of the content.
You see… I am REALLY tired of all the CRAP that is on the internet, and I want to create one big network of “like-minded” individuals, and teach them how to make money online.
Now, I will still be making money, through affiliate products, and advertising revenue, but the core products and services will be completely free.
So, I want to know what you think about that.
1. Would you be interested in a site like that?
2. Would you help me spread the word for a site like that?
Now, if I decided to completely shift my business model, it is going to take some time. This stuff is completely hypothetical, and I really have no idea exactly what I am going to do.
That’s why I want your help on this one.
Please take some time to leave a comment below, and let me know what you think about this post.
I look forward to reading all your comments, and to your ultimate success.
Sincerely,
Ryan
56 comments ↓
yes, I’m interested. Yes, I’d spread the word.
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From a consumer standpoint sounds awesome. From a business person standpoint sounds risky, but it almost makes genius type of sense. I’m guessing you’ll be able to command a higher affiliate commission solely based on the amount of traffic and the size of list you build for allowing everyone free access. From a selfish standpoint I’d love all the free stuff you can give, and in turn I hope some day I can pay it forward. Keep me posted.
Ryan,
I applaud you in considering the decision to offer your material free, while making an income on other offerings. I do the same thing on my blog. I believe we’re finally moving into an era where people will genuinely want to help others, and that will help themselves too. The good you put out comes back to bless you as well as those who benefited from your gift.
If for good reason you would not tell the world EXACTLY what you do and how you do it and you wanted honest advice for your true benefit, I would not tell you my answer in a public blog if I had your intrest in mind. That said who would not like what ever education out of the goodness of your heart if that is what it is. With all due respect I think you know what the answer would be.
I think that it sounds really good. I am not sure how it will work for you but I think it would be great for us. If it really helps me I certainly will spread the word.
[...] Read the rest of this great post here [...]
Sounds Great Ryan!I am an avid safe-list user and have used your products in the past. I think it is noble how you are giving back to the community that helped you reach your own goals. You will be helping many to achieve their
own, and that is where you will truly find “Greatness”
I would wait 3-6 months and see what happens with 3DayList.com. It’s a good prototype to test the concept. That should show you whether the larger idea would actually produce enough sales, or whether the 80-90% free-loaders would swamp your bandwidth and time without ever buying anything.
Neat idea though. Everyone else clamors “Buy! Buy! Buy!”, while you gave me something really helpful that I could actually afford. I’ve bought lots of stuff already, am out of work and nearly broke, so the others get no money out of me. I need to see what I can do with what I already have.
Thanks again.
Ryan, I think this is an awesome idea. Viral marketing is incredible and when the product offering is good will grow a list in no time. I will be glad to share your offering to others considering the value of your content.
Helping You Help Others…
Unadulterated altruism comes from within and does neither need nor seek the approval of others. The Golden Rule has already been laid out for us…whether we believe it and apply it is a different story.
Hi, Ryan,
I like the part about building a community of like-minded individuals and helping them to become successful. Success breeds success and hanging around with successful people reinforces the success mindset. Building the community is the first step and if it’s easy to join, the community will be built faster. I don’t know that you’ll significantly change the percentage of people who actually become successful, but you have no control over what people do with the info you give them. As long as the successful ones continue to hang together, it will be a force to help those willing to become successful, as well.
I am always interested in learning. I would love free information of Value. I receive so much info that is of little to no value at my stage of the game and I am learning to stay focused and only concern myself with information that will help me reach the current goals I have.
So, yes, I would return the kindness of spreading the word If I find free info of value.
Ryan, I received everyday your e-mail, I do not know how to start, because I want to work from home, I am Iretired woman with 70 years, but Iwant to do something because with the Social Security checks I can do much.
I hope you can teachme, I do not know much about computer
How can I refuse ? Keep it FREE and we do not need to spread the words out. People will come to us !
List building is really my worst nightmare during my online experience. And I believe it also happens to many of people.
That would be a great help !
Based on the valuable help received in 3daylist.com, I would be most interested in such free sites and will gladly spread the word. I am a “Newbie” and once I have a proven system of list building, conversions, etc., I plan to offer free mentoring to my downline in each of several MLM products. “The best things in life are free!”
Hey Ryan, Good Idea, But I wold wait for now. And you know me well and where I stand on this? It is a good thing for people to learn everything that you can give to them but not everything? I am working on something now? you know , and for this I would wait and see for at least to see the out come, of the project I and others are working with turn out, before you, do anything? I hope this helps you out in any way. Take care L always Dorie
Hey Ryan,
Good idea.
Keep us posted on how it is working for you.
Here is another way to get targeted leads for your business. No cost either!
[removed for spam]
See what you think and share with others for some amazing results.
Fred
A free website will be very helpful to me, and others who want to be internet marketers but don’t have money.
I would spread the work. Will this be a website that people can join only by receiving an invitation?
Hi Ryan,
You idea is an Idea whose time has come… I have spent the last two weeks attempting to learn how to put up a list building landing page with a video in it so I could market my RFS and I have not been able to accomplish this… I am aware of several others with the same problem.
Are you able to put up a training on this I would be glad to use your affiliates.
Jimmy George
317-288-4829
http://www.earn2ways.com
Hey Ryan i think it’s great to a free website we are lucky to kwon someone like you.Thanks for all your help.
Dear Ryan Wade:
I really don´t know so much about your new 3dayList.com, but I believe that would be a good idea to use it. I want use the RFS, but I have a doubt: is available all this in spanish? Because my english isn´t very good.
God bless you.
Hey Ryan, I apprieciate all that you do. Its invaluable, but I have not yet put any of this to the test yet. I found you over the weekend on youtube. Love that site!
Anyways I have been devouring your info and welcome more.
I love the ideas that you have, especially this one.
Keep up the good work.
Keep it coming.
I love the content you provide on your site. It is easy to follow, even for a total newbie like me.
Thank you.
You bet I will…I already have! Everyone needs to know how to build a list!! And the videos are great!! I’m a real visual learner and so are many others. Keep ‘em coming!
Thanks a heap.
Linda J.
Hi Ryan, even though I’ve had problems accessing the last 8-9 videos (sent you the trace routine results) I think the idea is great. If you can provide significant info at no cost, you can become the one source of supply for many people. This puts you in an awsome position! It remains to be seen if you can provide the funds you need to support the effort (and your organisation), but I think that will work without a problem. For me, I would be more than happy to get the information and shutdown all the other crap I get every day (250-300 emails).
For me, this is not only a great new idea, it’s also a way to save the email system from collapse.
Go for it!
Craig Hesser
You are talking exactly what I would like to do. I want to make money online but at the same time help others to do the same. Keep up the good work Ryan.
Paula
I only wish I had time to work the net. At this time I don’t. But with what I’ve seen posted so far there actually isn’t much I could add. What I hate is business people that say here - it’s free! But - you have to come up with a bunch of cash and you’ll have maybe one or two months to see if anything works (especially the one getting the so called “Free” material) as a lot of people don’t do anything when they’ve the chance. Shame that so many out there can not come up with much of anything to pay for something as that’s usually why there on the net looking. Nothing I’ve seen is free on the net with little exception. Especially something that can put you in a penthouse. Intentions are the greatest thing ever if people follow through. Somehow paying “X” amount of dollars and being able to get your money back if you’re not happy just doesn’t do it. People usually need their money to the max. Very few have or will provide fees without something concrete to stand good for their investments - not gambles. I personally think you are on the right track and know if you are then you’ll get much satisfaction which is more valuable then cash - but not in the real world - unfortunately, cash makes your world exist for most folks. If I can ever get free from taking care of my mother and her ills, then I’ll certianly be looking you up for lessons! To go to the length of work you are doing says that at least you’re interested in making someone else’s life comfortable for satisfaction and for sure, making new and interesting friends.
sjcIII.
Hi Ryan,
I am a little at odds with the other reporters and whilst it was great to receive your free 3dayslist, I am basically against offering genuine advice for free.
As you know I am a tennis coach and I find that if you give lessons free then very few want to come back and pay for more.
I believe, asd I have already mentioned to you, that there is a big need for down to earth “How to do it’ info.
most of the info given by internet savvy people does not give sufficient detail to those who are new to the game.
I believe a far better idea is to have a members club where you may join at a very nominal monthly fee, and get fresh info and help each month.
I belong to such a club for tennis and pay $10 per month but the info received is priceless.
However, what you decide I will certainly tell others about tit.
jj
After loosing two computers to internet generated Trogens and Virous, I’m not sure if I want to do anything on the net anymore! But yes I would tell others about it.
Sorry about the mistake in the last comment.
Just to add some further thoughts to your question.
Incidently, as mentioned by Jeremy, I am also short on the money, but am still willing to pay (where I can) for good info.
If you wwere to do a serious info website, I believe it would be necessary to answer basic questions received from members, and this would be best done so that all members could look for that detail. This gives extra work as it would need catagorising, but it would be invaluable.
Another point that I personally would like, is to have the info in written form as well, videos are O.K. but I prefer to be able to download and print details so that I can keep referring to it.
When information is detailed ‘di this - do that’ for some of us, it is necessary to keep going back to the video, over and over.
Well enough from me
jj
Hi Ryan
Go for it!
You know that people knows it when you are sincere and even if it is a bare affiliate link, people will still want to buy from you.
I am a firm believer of before and after sale support.
And I must say that I am very =) to hear from you within a few hours when I encounter some probs with 3 days list videos.
Thanks! And keep in touch =)
JY
Ryan, I would certianly have a look, and if it is everything you say, then I would be on board.
Hi Ryan,
I’ve been watching your video clips on YOUtube and found it very interesting, indeed! Thanks for all the efforts and time you’re devoting to help/teach us less computer talented people like me. You see, I’m in the Wellness Industry and I’m always interested in learning more on how I can recruit new serious business partners online worldwide to speed up my organization. About the list building idea you named, I believe you! I think it’s absolutely a great idea as it’s one of the most important step to expanding business, so carry on with it!
BTW, sorry for delaying my feedback, right now I’m very busy preparing for our trip to our very first TAHITIAN NONI INTERNATIONAL Regional Leadership Convention in Eruope which will be held at the New York Hotel in Disney Paris, France.
But I want you to know that I value all the informormations you’re sharing with me, and I truly appreciate everything! You’re such a wonderful person! It will be such a blessing if you could help me improve my worldwide recruitment project online, as I can also help you spread the word of your own project on our Leadership Convention. I also love helping people who are ready to change improve thier lifestyle into better!
More power to you Ryan, and please keep me posted!
Good luck, goo health and GOD Bless you!
All the best//Nenita
CEO for EuroAsia, Sweden/UK
http://www.tni.com/uk/2euroasia
2euroasia@tahitiannoni.com
Independent Product Consultant for TNI
Yes yes! I would spread the word for sure
what a blessing this would be
Very gracious of you to try to help all of us build our lists up and I certainly would help to spread the word.
Ryan, I have been receiving your emails for a while now and find value in every one.
Concerning your ideas about free advice to those of us in the relationship marketing industry I agree wholeheartedly with John the Geek and I will spread the word as you suggest.
You may leave off my website if it poses any conflict.
Hello Ryan:
Yes to both your questions.
However, I have to take it easy right now, since the LOAN BUSINESS has changed quite a bit.
I agree with JOHN, who stated that most of the time
people who instruct DO NOT GIVE SUFFICIENT DETAIL.
And information in print is also helpful.
Good luck!
Hi Ryan:
I noticed a reference to someone named ‘Bram’, is this a friend of yours and could it possibly be the one and only Bram Smith of Texas!?!
Chuck Hughes
TheCrazyAffiliate
Hi Ryan,
I have been receiving your information for over 6 months and it has helped me to realize that I have a lot to learn. What you are considering to do is admirable and is exactly what I intend to do as I gain the knowledge to do so.
I will spread the word.
Thanks,
Jack
business / lists when quailfied are the lifeblood of this business. free……..yes
spread the word………..yes
only people who want to work the business will use them anyway, but the mindset being recgnized as helping both upline and downline is the only way to show new clients the benefits of membership, and to build a business with staying power due to the loyalty felt by each member….more depth, less width makes this manageable
Ryan,
FREE often comes with a hidden price. I applaude your curiosity and creativity , and your idea sounds altruistic. Building a better mousetrap is often the answer, but where relationship marketing is involved , the project must be mutually beneficial.
I too get REALLY tired of all the CRAP that is on the internet that imply you can get rich quick with their respective products and would love to see “one stop networking” become a reality.
From your blog it is apparent that you are deeply familiar with Jeff Walkers (Product Launch Formula), and the importance of relationship building to ones success. It is a challenging and exciting cyber world with many opportunities to create a successful online business with the right knowledge and perseverance. I would support your initiative.
Hi, since i left work in 04, my internet endeavors have not got me anywhere so i am not anxious to try anything new to see if my promoting will work.You might say i am in the bail out mood to go back to working instead of trying to get any more sign ups,
Hey Ryan,
You know I’m behind you all the way. You have always been there to help me with any project. You’re sincere and passionate about helping others. I hope I can someday repay you for all the help you have already given me.
I would value any additional information you would like to share. I do feel that it is only right that you receive something in return for all your hard work and time. Good luck to you, I wish you all the success.
Do what is best for you, and if I can help in any way let me know.
Roger
Hi. Just read your blog and I’m all for this type of thing. Being as I’m flat broke at the moment I need some free resources to help me get things off the ground. Money (or the lack of it) has always been the BIG thing in my quest to find a way to make some cash to get my life off the ground. I have lots of sites but nearly no traffic so I need to do something about it, Free stuff would help more than you’d know. Great Idea.
Hey Ryan, If this will in your opinion, help your fellow persons, then I will help you spread the word. I like the idea. Phil
Good idea.
Good idea. Should be helpful to many, including me.
I have been on your e-mail list for some months now and cannot say I understand how you make money. As such I have signed up for your 3day list course to hopefully get a better understanding. As for what I think I will let you know thereafter.
Hi Ryan
Sorry I have been slow to respond to this. I must tell you it has been great to receive whatever free helpful information or training you want to give out,like 3 day list.com which is amazing, or the GDI teleseminar which you did with Bram Smith. However, I think you are fully entitled to charge something (please make it reasonable) for this very valuable information. I have just purchased your “affiliate caffeine” set of interviews and I am very happy with what I have received so far. The price was great too! Thanks a lot.
John Copland
in Toronto
Hi Ryan sounds like a great idea,I enjoy teaching my friends things I have learned about real estate Investing and think it would be brilliant to offer free training on internet marketing in return for us promoting the opportunity. i,m sure Everyone would be glad to recommend your site I,m sure you could generate a lot of paid adverts as well due to high Internet Traffic that the site would generate.
sotiris.b
Sounds great. Definitely share but will it get bogged down by the masses of other non-like minded who will inevitably find it (I guess they’ll go away if truly not like-minded / or convert)? The pay-it-forward concept can never be overstated.
Hi Ryan,
I would be interested and help you spread the word.
You be giving something back in which would be a
blessing to you. Just think of the people you would
save from all the internet junk, being ripped off,
scammed and them from feeling like they have been
kicked in the teeth. Thanks for the videos I learned
a lot.
Ben
Ryan;
It has been said that you give but little when you give of your possessions. It is when you give of yourself that you truly give…..You have truly given - THANKS !
Yes - I would be interested in a site of that type.
Yes - I would spread the word.
I’m new to network markting and this would help a lot. many people that don’t have a lot of money like me trying to get started this would help.
Yes! absoutly fantastic!!!!!!!!!! I ahve been blundering around in the dark, taking classes, but not getting the basic info that I needed. Your 3daylist.com is fantastic.
Please more like that.
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