Are intimate retreats or larger summits next?

Justin Gordon returns to share the LA Grind playbook: a local newsletter for founders, operators, and investors in Los Angeles that blends curated events, deal flow, jobs, and “living in LA” picks. In just four months, he’s crossed ~5,200 subscribers (as of Sept 25) and turned the list into a thriving in-person community.

We dig into the growth stack (Meta ads + LinkedIn + event flywheels + Luma), why paying $1–$1.50 per subscriber can still be a steal, and how welcome surveys/polls power better sponsors and programming. Justin also shares his low-lift event philosophy—hikes, mixers, breakfasts, coffee meetups, even poker—that keeps logistics simple while relationships compound.

You’ll hear concrete monetization tactics: recurring $29/month memberships with 2+ curated events, ticketed mixers with sponsors, and how he uses survey data to line up bigger vertical partners (like real estate) and explore recruiting/job board revenue. We also cover expansion thinking (SF/NY), intimate retreats vs. larger summits, and how to decide what to launch next.

Guest contacts: 

Justin Gordon

Website: thelagrind.com

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