Authority Hacker Podcast – AI & Automation for Small biz & Marketers

Why we shut down our 7 figure business

Feb 18, 2025

The hosts reveal their bold decision to close a successful multi-million dollar course business, opening up about the emotional journey behind it. They discuss the decline of traditional affiliate marketing due to shifting consumer behavior and the rise of AI-driven content. With newfound freedom, they navigate the challenges of online business models, questioning the sustainability of quick side hustles. The conversation pivots towards the transformative potential of AI and automation, hinting at exciting future explorations in these areas.

57:25

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Quick takeaways

The decision to shut down their successful course business stemmed from the realization that the traditional affiliate marketing model had become uninspiring and unsustainable.

The hosts emphasized the importance of transparency and integrity in business, prioritizing genuine value and customer trust over immediate financial gains.

Moving forward, they plan to explore AI and automation within marketing strategies, aiming to democratize access to technology for marketers and entrepreneurs.

Deep dives

Deciding to Move On

The decision to shut down a successful course business after ten years was driven by the realization that the existing business model no longer inspired excitement, despite its financial success. The hosts emphasized that transitioning to new endeavors can be essential for personal and professional growth, even when faced with difficult choices. They acknowledged the emotional toll of informing their dedicated team about the closure, but noted that many team members quickly found new opportunities afterward. This change marked a significant point for the hosts as they sought to align their work with their passions and values.

Intro

2min

The Shift in Content Creation

8min

Turning Point: Closure and New Beginnings

5min

Navigating Challenges in Online Business Models

3min

Evolving Online Business Models

12min

The Shift in Search Dynamics: AI's Impact on SEO and Marketing

3min

Harnessing AI for Business Transformation

16min

Embracing Change: AI and Automation in Business

9min

Send us a text

In this episode, we pull back the curtain on our decision to shut down our multi-million dollar course business with 15,000 customers.

We discuss the decline of the affiliate marketing model, the rise of AI, and our shift in focus towards AI and automation for marketers and entrepreneurs. From letting go of our team to facing our customers, we share candid insights into the challenges and triumphs, of making this major business pivot and where the future of Authority Hacker goes from here.

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Hosts: Mark Webster & Gael Breton
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A special thanks to our sponsors for this episode, Digital PR Agency, Digital PR:
https://digital.pr/
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