The Opportunity Podcast Affiliate Marketing Isn’t Dead: How Top Affiliates Are Still Cashing In With Niels Zee [Ep.189]
Affiliate marketing is far from dead. In fact, it’s evolving faster than ever.
While many have written it off as an outdated model, the smartest affiliates are quietly cashing in by adapting to shifts in algorithms, AI, and consumer behavior.
In this week’s podcast, Greg sits down with Niels Zee, affiliate entrepreneur, author, and founder of Afframp. Niels breaks down what’s working in 2025 and how top affiliates continue to rack up big wins.
Niels shares how the Google Helpful Content Update completely reshaped his entrepreneurial journey, pushing him to rethink strategies and embrace adaptability. He reveals why pivoting and staying flexible are the real superpowers for affiliates, and how to scale faster with tactics like negotiating above-market commission rates and using Google Ads to supercharge campaigns.
We also dive into how to build long-term sustainability instead of chasing short-term wins, and how to evaluate offers that are actually worth promoting. Plus, Niels uncovers today’s most promising niches, explains why YouTube is becoming a must-use channel, and shares practical strategies for avoiding burnout in a high-pressure industry.
Whether you’re new to affiliate marketing or a seasoned pro looking to sharpen your edge, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you thrive in 2025.
Topics Discussed in this episode:- How the Helpful Content Update changed Niels' entrepreneurial journey (02:00)
- The importance of pivoting and flexibility for affiliates (06:30)
- Using Google Ads to boost your affiliate business (14:27)
- How to get above-market commission rates (19:31)
- What top affiliates are doing to keep succeeding (23:59)
- How to build longevity as an affiliate (26:11)
- Evaluating a good affiliate offer (29:35)
- The best verticals and niches to operate in (32:45)
- Using YouTube to boost your affiliate business (35:19)
- How to avoid burnout while scaling your business (46:33)
Sit back, grab a coffee, and learn how to succeed as an affiliate in 2025 and beyond!