That gave me a unique understanding of the dynamics involved with building highly profitable (but low stress) online communities. Most importantly, I discovered what keeps members happy and coming back month after month — which is the secret to profitability soaring.

From there I decided to test my knowledge and I partnered with New York Times best-selling author Michael Hyatt. Together we took his business from a high 6-figure business (with lots and lots of stress) to a high 7-figure business (with low-stress). His profitability soared, his email list grew from 70,000 to over 500,000 and he gained back over 100+ days with his family by not having to travel. Watch the full story right here.

But the reality is, adding recurring revenue to your business isn’t just for established authors, experts or coaches.

Now as the Creator of the TRIBE Experience, I’ve gained a unique behind the scenes perspective of what works in membership and subscription. And this isn’t just some markets - I’ve literally been helping people in virtually every market you can think of - from photography and calligraphy to dog training, fitness, music, health, meal plans, teacher plans, non-profit, personal development, business development and so many more!

And through it all, I’ve discovered the subtle nuances that make a BIG difference in the success of the sites that thrive year over year versus those that struggle and stall.

What I love most about recurring revenue is reducing the “go-go-go” stress and instead redesigning your business so you can be more present in the lives of those that matter most to you. To laugh more, live more and to create a real difference in the world.

It alleviates stress - on you and your business. And not only that, it gives you a heck of a lot more freedom and space.

When you’ve got the space to creatively and confidently bring your best work to the world, that’s when you begin having the greatest impact on the people you serve. The byproduct of that is more success. And the more success you experience, the more you can invest in the people and the causes you care about.

There’s also a BIGGER reason why I’m so passionate about membership sites and recurring revenue. It’s because I believe that a recurring membership is THE greatest tool for creating positive change in this world. And this belief came from one question I asked years ago when I travelled rural Kenya. 

My wife, Amy, had inspired me to use my entrepreneurial skills to make more money for causes that we were passionate about. That led to us starting our own charity, Village Impact, with a focus of bringing education to kids who didn’t have a chance to go to school.

So there I was, in the middle of nowhere, hundreds of mud huts on my left and an open, grassy field on my right. We stood there talking to the chairman of this community seeking information on what it would cost to build a school.

That’s when I asked… “What does it cost to fund the full-time salary of a teacher”?

His response was: “Roughly $100/month”.

Now at the time, I was selling our membership software (WishList Member) for $97 for a single site license. So when I heard $100/month, I made a connection.

I thought to myself, “If I just make one more sale per month and dedicate that to funding these teachers, imagine the ripple effect that could have for all these kids”.

But my mind went further… Imagine if these were monthly subscriptions? Think about the impact of adding one more monthly member. What if that were the revenue from 10 members, 100 members or 1,000 members?

Think of all the good that could come from these subscriptions. Think of all the schools that could be built and consistently funded. All the kids that would get an education. 

And the long-term ripple that could have on future generations in these communities. 

Suddenly, everything felt different. It clicked.

For years I had dealt with all kinds of “money guilt”. I never had a problem making money, but internally I struggled once I had it. There was this tension of wanting more, but feeling selfish when I got more.

I don’t know if you’ve ever dealt with something like that but it led to all kinds of self sabotage that ultimately affected my growth and potential.

But that day I realized something that has now become the driving force behind my passion for business. I realized that “the more money I make, the more impact I can have”.

Making money became honorable. And I quickly realized that if I wanted to create a lasting impact beyond my own life, money, would be the fastest way that I could create positive change.

That’s why your work matters. It matters for you and your business. It matters for your members and the incredible progress you’re going to help them make in their lives.

And it matters for the people you’ll be able to impact outside of the membership too - through the causes and charities that you’re passionate about.

So, let’s connect! My team and I do my best to get back to everyone, so let us know how we can help.  

If your question is related to my course, membership, or mastermind, and need support, please feel free to contact our team directly at help at membership dot site.

If you’re a member of the media or looking for guests for your podcast, please contact my team. They’ll be happy to help you out!