How Stephen Regenold Grew His Site to 10 Million Monthly Views
Curious to learn how this journalist used his content writing skills and industry knowledge to create a successful media empire?
His journey began as a local journalist in Minneapolis, then transitioned to reporting for the prestigious New York Times before establishing Gear Junkie.
Today, he generously shares valuable insights on how he achieved the following:
- Expanding the site to attract millions of monthly visitors and generate millions in revenue,
- Selling the site at the onset of the Covid pandemic,
- Returning to contribute to the growth of an even larger outdoor media powerhouse.
Watch The Interview
Stephen Regenold’s journey is a prime example of digital media success. In the early 2010s, amid the decline of print media due to the rise of the Internet, he took the bold step of launching his own outdoor blog.
During the initial stages of his online venture, Stephen made shrewd decisions regarding the site’s revenue model, focusing on direct ad sales, affiliate commerce, and SEO strategies.
These factors, coupled with a stroke of luck when a term they popularized was being considered for inclusion in the Oxford Dictionary, propelled the brand to immense success.
(He also highlights the pivotal role that video content, ranging from short clips to documentaries, played in their overall strategy.)
Gear Junkie’s accomplishments led to substantial revenue and partnerships with major brands, establishing the site and its editors as influential figures in the industry. They engaged their audience through collaborations with YouTubers, Instagram personalities, and effective SEO tactics.
By 2018, acquisition offers started pouring in, ultimately resulting in Gear Junkie’s sale to Lola Digital in 2020. Following the acquisition, the company rebranded as All Gear Digital, secured $40 million in funding, made eight additional acquisitions, transformed into a prominent outdoor media conglomerate, and enlisted Stephen’s expertise to fuel their expansion.
This transition coincided with a notable surge in interest in outdoor activities and gear during the pandemic, further boosting the outdoor industry’s growth.
Stephen delves into the current status of All Gear Digital’s brands, offering insights on their performance and outlining strategies to add value to discussions while maintaining a distinctive voice in a competitive landscape. As a testament to their success, the site’s impressive dwell time will leave you astounded.