Permission To Shine
47. Dan Ni | Building TLDR into 5M Subscribers
Oct 8, 2024
Dan Ni, Founder and CEO of TLDR, shares his journey from Yale to culinary school and ultimately to leading a tech newsletter with over 5 million subscribers. He discusses the changing landscape of media, particularly the influence of AI and TikTok on how we consume content. The conversation also explores the importance of action over thought, the necessity of remote work, and his reflections on personal growth while navigating challenges. Plus, hear about his childhood in Missouri and the entrepreneurial spark from his parents.
39:09
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Quick takeaways
- Dan Ney emphasizes the importance of building a curious and enthusiastic team to successfully navigate the media landscape and enhance product value.
- His journey highlights that periods of adversity and exploration can lead to significant learning experiences, fostering resilience and a growth mindset.
Deep dives
The Rise of TLDR: From Side Project to Success
The newsletter TLDR, founded by Dan Ney, serves as a concise resource for technology news, akin to what the Wall Street Journal provides for finance. Initially started in 2018 as a fun side project, TLDR rapidly grew from about 100,000 subscribers to over 5 million across various vertical newsletters, underscoring its popularity and impact. With TLDR achieving an estimated $10 million in revenue and operating with a lean team of just 20 employees, Ney highlights the efficiency and focused approach of the business model. The success stems from curating content sourced from industry professionals, ensuring that the newsletter delivers engaging and relevant information to its readers.
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