Jemicah Marasigan
Content Marketing Manager
Ads have been the backbone of media revenue for ages—and hey, they work. But if that’s all you’re relying on, you’re missing out on some seriously profitable opportunities to monetize content in new and exciting ways.
The good news? You don’t have to ditch ads—you just need to expand your playbook. Think exclusive memberships that turn loyal readers into paying superfans, premium content that people actually want to buy, creative brand partnerships, and even live experiences that bring your audience closer to your brand.
The best media companies don’t just rely on one revenue stream—they stack them like pros. Either by:
So if you’re ready to get creative, boost engagement, and explore fresh ways to monetize content, here’s how.
1. Tap into influencer partnerships
Influencers aren’t just for beauty gurus or sneakerheads—they’re perfect partners for media brands too! Why? Because audiences trust influencers like they trust their friends (way more than traditional ads).
Micro-influencers (10K-100K followers) often have engagement rates 60% higher than mega-celebs. Brands like Barstool Sports crush this strategy, partnering with podcast hosts and influencers who match their vibe, turning casual followers into dedicated subscribers and fans.
To make this work, craft clear but flexible guidelines for influencers, allowing their creativity and authenticity to shine. When your partnership feels genuine, your audience will connect—and conversions skyrocket.
2. Have customers and fans make user-generated content (UGC)
Your fans aren't just passive followers—they're your biggest cheerleaders, ready to spread the word if you give them the chance!
User-generated content (UGC) taps into this powerful enthusiasm, turning genuine fan excitement into valuable (and free!) marketing. Starbucks nailed this strategy with their iconic "Red Cup Contest" transforming a simple cup into a beloved holiday tradition that fans can't wait to share online.
By hosting social media contests and playful promotions, Starbucks encourages customers to celebrate their holiday experiences—and even get creative. In fact, back in 2016, Starbucks took things up a notch by inviting fans to submit their own cup designs. The result? A perfect blend of art, fun, and community that skyrocketed engagement, built brand loyalty, and generated massive buzz—all through the power of authentic fan participation.
Ready to give it a shot? Launch photo contests, interactive challenges, or exclusive giveaways that get your audience genuinely excited to jump in. When your community feels part of something special, they'll eagerly spread the word, boosting your reach, loyalty, and, ultimately, revenue.
3. Set-up a subscription model because content is king
Your content isn't ordinary—so why treat it that way? It’s time to roll out the red carpet and give your top-notch content the VIP treatment it deserves! Subscriptions are an awesome way to secure stable, ongoing revenue from your biggest fans—the ones who truly love what you do. Platforms like Patreon make it super easy for creators (think podcasters, YouTubers, and bloggers) to turn their best stuff into something fans eagerly pay for.
Try offering different subscription tiers so fans can pick their perfect fit. Think premium newsletters packed with exclusive tips, juicy behind-the-scenes insights, or special event invites they can't find anywhere else. When your fans know they’re getting something unique, they'll happily pull out their wallets to support you—again and again.
4. Turn your content into unforgettable moments
Why limit your content to screens? Take it live! Whether it’s a live podcast recording, a virtual meet-and-greet with a celebrity, or a hands-on workshop, events are a great way to monetize content and connect with your audience on a deeper level.
For example, media brands like TED have been putting on live events for years. Their TEDx conferences are a massive hit and offer opportunities for sponsorships, ticket sales, and premium experiences. It’s a great way to take your content beyond the screen and create memorable moments that your audience will pay for.
Plus, you can also make content at these events by interviewing guests, filming videos, turning snippets into clips, and grabbing photos for brand awareness.
So, don’t be afraid to think outside the box with your events. It doesn’t always have to be a traditional conference—maybe you host a live stream Q&A with a popular influencer, or a virtual concert. Get creative!
5. Wear your brand proudly (and profitably)
Your fans already love your content—so give them something tangible they can proudly show off! Branded merchandise like clothing, accessories, or specialty products aren't just great ways to deepen fan loyalty—they're an opportunity to build a full-blown media empire. Just look at Alex Cooper and her wildly successful Call Her Daddy podcast. What started as candid conversations quickly blossomed into a lifestyle brand—Unwell—with premium merch drops, stylish apparel collections, and even her own sparkling water line (because, why not?).
Cooper nailed it by launching merch that perfectly matched her audience’s vibe, turning each release into something fans genuinely looked forward to. This didn’t just boost loyalty—it created an entirely new income stream, helping her podcast evolve from casual listening into a powerhouse brand.
Want to try it yourself? Create fun, high-quality designs that your audience will genuinely get excited about. Limited-edition drops and exclusive collabs can build buzz and urgency, making your fans eager to buy—and proudly rep—your brand. Before you know it, your fans become your best advertising, and your brand could be the next big thing.
6. Collaborate on sponsored content your audience will love
For most customers, traditional ads often feel like interruptions. But when sponsored content is done right? It’s more like helpful advice from a friend who knows their stuff.
Take Smartsheet’s collaboration with Adweek, for example. They teamed up to create a practical, visually engaging guide for modern marketers, packed with tips and insights people actually wanted to read. The best part? They showcased Smartsheet’s strengths without ever feeling pushy or salesy. A simple link at the end smoothly introduced the product, making it easy for curious readers to learn more.
And this works well!
Good sponsored content feels natural, valuable, and authentic. It respects your readers’ time and genuinely helps them out. You can replicate this by offering sponsored articles or features on your own site, choosing brands your audience genuinely cares about.
Thinking about giving sponsored content a shot? It helps to have a CRM like Copper to make things easy. You can manage relationships with sponsors, keep conversations organized, and even send personalized emails to your subscribers. It streamlines all the behind-the-scenes work, so you spend less time juggling details and more time creating content people love.
7. Create interactive quizzes
Everyone loves interactive quizzes and personalized experiences—think about how many times you've clicked on a personality test just for fun. BuzzFeed famously turned this into a massive business, skyrocketing to popularity with engaging quizzes that drew huge audiences. While they've had their ups and downs (proving you can't rely on just one trick forever), their success highlights a powerful way to monetize content.
Quizzes and interactive tools don't just entertain; they keep visitors on your site longer, increase page views, and offer valuable insights into your audience's interests. You can create quizzes around trending topics, helpful product recommendations, or niche-specific guides that speak directly to your audience.
Brands will gladly pay to sponsor these quizzes or access the audience insights you gather, giving you multiple streams of revenue from content your audience actually enjoys
8. Make some branded mini games
Think about how hooked people get playing Wordle or the New York Times Mini Crossword. Branded mini-games are interactive, addictive, and perfect opportunities for sponsorships and premium ad spots. Even LinkedIn jumped into gaming with brain teasers designed to get users regularly interacting with their platform.
Creating a daily or weekly game builds habit, meaning your audience keeps coming back—giving you steady, monetizable traffic. Brands can sponsor games, offer cool prizes, or subtly integrate their products right into the gameplay. Yes, it takes a bit of upfront effort, but if you're looking to monetize content long-term, this playful strategy might be exactly what you need.
9. Let your fans help bring your big ideas to life
Sometimes your fans are just waiting for the right moment (and a really cool idea) to step up and support you. Platforms like Kickstarter or Indiegogo let you crowdfund special projects your community can get excited about—like funding a gripping investigative series, launching your own mini-documentary, creating a limited-edition magazine, or hosting an exclusive event that your fans will love.
If you're running a podcast, platforms like Patreon can also be a game-changer, letting you offer exclusive episodes, behind-the-scenes content, or personalized perks to listeners who chip in. It's a great way to earn steady support while building an engaged community around your show.
And don’t forget to thank your backers! Sweeten the deal by giving them fun perks like limited-edition merch, early access, subscription deals, or even personal shout-outs. Your fans get to be part of your creative journey, you score upfront funding for your dream project, and everyone wins.
Ready to monetize content like never before?
Relying only on traditional ads is so yesterday. Today's best media brands stack their revenue streams like a playlist—creative, diverse, and fun. Whether it’s teaming up with influencers, creating must-have merch, or launching subscription-worthy content, the key is staying authentic and giving your audience something they truly love.
If you're ready to level up how you monetize your content, it all comes down to building strong, genuine relationships—whether it’s with sponsors, subscribers, or brand partners. Having the right tools makes relationship-building easier, helping you grow these connections for the long haul.
Give Copper CRM a try (it’s free for 14 days!) and see how it can help you nurture the relationships that support your growth!
Because great content deserves great monetization—so let’s get creative and make it happen!
