The Simple Art of Running an Email List That Actually Works

You know what’s worse than a bad email?

No email at all.

For real, email marketing is like hitting the gym. You skip one day, and before you know it, you’re six months in, trying to convince yourself that carrying groceries counts as a workout.

Let’s fix that today. Let’s get your email list running like it’s meant to.

Step 1: Pick Your Email Style—Autopilot or Freestyle

There are two main ways to handle an email list, and both have their perks. But you’ve got to commit to one (or both):

The Autoresponder: "Set It and Forget It"

Perfect if you have a lead magnet. You set up a sequence of emails that drip-feed your audience over time. They learn, they click, they (hopefully) buy. It’s automated, smooth, and works like clockwork.

Think of it as planting seeds—set it up once, and let it grow while you’re off doing more exciting things.

The "Freestyle" Email: A Daily (or Weekly) Connection

This one’s more high-maintenance. You’re writing emails regularly—daily, weekly, or whenever you’ve got something juicy to share.

But here’s the catch: You actually have to sit down and write them.

Not once in a while. Consistently. Because an email list isn’t a part-time gig. It’s a relationship with your audience. You can’t ghost them and expect them to care when you show up six months later like, “Heyyyy, miss me?”

Step 2: Current Events Are Your Best Friend (If You Use Them Right)

Ever notice how LinkedIn is full of cringe posts trying to link random events to business lessons?

“Mike lost to Jake, and here’s what that taught me about synergy.”

“I saw a squirrel today, and now I’m a better leader.”

No. Stop. We’re not doing that.

Instead, tie your emails to current events in a way that feels natural. Think about how you’d bring it up in a conversation. Start with the small talk, make a point, and then softly sell.

Here’s an example:

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Subject: Mike Lost

Woke up this morning. Couldn’t believe it.

Mike lost…

…to a YouTuber.

Worse? I lost too.

Because I bet on Mike.

And here’s the thing: I always lose when I gamble. Crypto, sports, doesn’t matter. If you see me betting, take the other side.

But that’s why I love running ads. It’s not gambling.

When you run ads (or emails, for that matter) the right way, it’s methodical.

• Test something.

• Measure the results.

• Make decisions based on data, not vibes.

It’s not flashy, but it works. And if you’re gambling on your marketing, let’s fix that.

Talk soon,

Ivan

P.S. If you want me to take a look at your ad account and make sure you’re playing to win, click here.

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See? No cringe. Just relatable, conversational, and to the point.

Step 3: Know Your List’s Journey

Here’s a little hack for structuring your email list:

Start with an autoresponder. Let’s say 4-6 emails—just enough to warm up new subscribers and deliver value.

After that, they graduate to your general list where they get your regular freestyle emails.

This way, your new subscribers get attention right away, and your existing list stays engaged without overwhelming anyone.

Step 4: Always Be Writing

Email marketing isn’t something you do once and forget about. It’s an ongoing conversation. Keep your content fresh, relevant, and varied. Test new ideas, use different styles, and experiment with your calls to action.

Because here’s the deal: your email list is a goldmine—but only if you treat it right. So don’t let it gather dust. Write. Send. Measure. Repeat.

Talk soon,

Ivan

P.S. If you’re still wondering what to say in your emails or how to get started, hit me up. I’ll help you figure it out.