Chief in the North Newsletter
About the Company
The Chief in the North Newsletter is a digital publication dedicated to delivering comprehensive coverage of the Kansas City Chiefs and the NFL. Created by Seth Keysor, who has over a decade of experience in sports media, the newsletter serves as an alternative to traditional sports journalism. It offers subscribers a chance to gain insights into the complexities of football, emphasizing analysis over sensationalism. As of June 2022, the newsletter has garnered a strong following and substantial revenue growth, marking its transition from a simple side project to a respected voice in the sports community.
Idea Behind Company
The inspiration for the newsletter came from Keysor's deep passion for the Kansas City Chiefs and football as a whole. After spending years in the sports media industry, he recognized a gap in the market for in-depth, analytical content that went beyond surface-level reporting. His desire to provide fans with valuable insights led him to explore the intricacies of the game, offering a more educated perspective on what happens during games. This vision prompted him to create a platform where diehard fans could engage with detailed analysis, fostering a community eager for more than just the typical hot takes.
Creating the Company
Keysor established the newsletter amid the upheaval caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected his role at The Athletic, reducing him to a handful of articles each month. He sought to fill the void left by mainstream media while also pursuing a long-held ambition to build a personal connection with fans. Keysor chose Substack for its user-friendly design and straightforward setup, enabling him to focus on content creation. After thoughtful consideration and preparation, including a successful pre-launch campaign, he officially launched the newsletter, surprising himself with the overwhelming response from subscribers eager for quality content.
Launching the Business
To launch the Chief in the North Newsletter, Keysor crafted a detailed "launch article" explaining his vision and inviting his existing followers from previous jobs to join him on this new venture. He implemented a promotional strategy that included a limited-time discount for early subscribers, further incentivizing engagement. The excitement surrounding the launch exceeded his expectations, prompting him to go live ahead of schedule to accommodate the influx of interest. Since then, the newsletter has consistently attracted new subscribers, solidifying its place within the sports media landscape.
Earnings
newsletter generates approximately $4,000 per month, driven by a strategic pricing model that keeps subscription fees low. He has opted to maintain a 60% discount on subscriptions, which has proven effective in attracting a broad audience. This pricing approach reduces barriers for potential subscribers and fosters a loyal customer base willing to renew. By focusing on high-quality content and organic marketing through social media, Keysor continues to build his subscriber list, aiming for a target of 5,000 paid subscribers by the next NFL season. His experience emphasizes the importance of prioritizing customer satisfaction and content quality over immediate profits.
