Exiting the largest fitness site in the world - TWIDM EP36
Jul 11, 2023
auto_awesome
David Tao, co-founder of BarBend, discusses raising $800K, monetization strategies, and the challenges of scaling a content business. They also explore their transition to Pillar 4, interests in whiskey and spirits, and rejecting acquisition offers. They touch on preserving sports history, mental health impact, and the transition period after a big exit.
Barben's success was fueled by organic traffic and strategic SEO practices.
The importance of display advertising, sponsored content, and affiliate marketing in Barben's monetization strategies.
David's reflection on the ups and downs of scaling Barben and finding balance and gratitude after the acquisition.
Deep dives
The Journey of Barben and its Success in the Fitness Industry
David Thomas describes the journey of Barben, a prominent fitness site that covers strength sports. He explains how the company started in 2016, focusing on producing high-quality content for strength enthusiasts. Barben's growth was fueled by organic traffic and strategic SEO practices. The company successfully raised funding to scale their content production and hired a full-time editorial team. David emphasizes the importance of maintaining profitability and revenue focus rather than chasing high valuations. He also discusses the benefits of working with Pillar 4, the company that ultimately acquired Barben.
Monetization Strategies and Sponsorships at Barben
David shares insights into Barben's monetization strategies, highlighting the importance of display advertising, sponsored content, and affiliate marketing. The company works closely with advertising partners to promote their products through various channels, including newsletters and podcasts. David also mentions the potential for exploring new revenue streams like e-commerce, courses, and community-building initiatives in the future.
Challenges and Resilience in the Content Business
David reflects on the ups and downs of scaling Barben, including the challenges of dealing with Google algorithm updates and the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasizes the importance of building resiliency and adaptability into the business model. David discusses how he navigated the stressful moments and shares his personal journey of finding balance and gratitude after the acquisition.
Selling a Business and Post-Acquisition Plans
David provides insights into the process of selling a business, including evaluating acquisition offers and considering the best outcome for investors, employees, and personal goals. He also discusses his decision to continue working with Pillar 4 after the acquisition and highlights the importance of finding a company where he is excited to continue working. David shares his post-acquisition plans, including personal financial decisions, investing, and focusing on a smoother transition period.
Lessons Learned and Personal Growth
David reflects on the lessons he learned as the CEO of Barben and the personal growth he experienced throughout the journey. He shares his thoughts on taking risks, dealing with burnout, and finding a healthier work-life balance. David emphasizes the importance of being grateful and finding joy in the process, even in the face of challenges.
Wrap-up and Contact Information
David shares his contact information, including his social media handles and Medium post, where readers can find more details about the Barben journey. He concludes by expressing his gratitude for the opportunity and his excitement for the next chapter in his career.
Get ready to pump up the knowledge with David Tao, co-founder of BarBend, as we dive into his journey of raising $800K, dealing with competitive sites, and his thoughts post-exit. In this fun and informal chat, we explore everything from monetization strategies to the complexities of display ads, and even get a peek into David's plans for his earnings. Tune in and get inspired!
