19 Successful Blogs (and How They Make Money)

Behind every successful blog is a story most people never hear.

It’s not always about being the best writer or having the most polished website—it’s about taking action, staying consistent, and being bold enough to carve your own lane.

In this post, we’ve reverse-engineered 19 ordinary blogs that have turned extraordinary across profitable niches—from travel to tech, parenting to personal finance. These aren’t just vague success stories.

We’re breaking down:

  • What they did (their unfair advantages),
  • How they did it (their traffic & monetization strategies),
  • What you can copy TODAY to start a blog that actually pays.

✨ Whether you’re a beginner or feeling stuck, this post will light a fire under you. Why? Because these bloggers started exactly where you are—no audience, no roadmap, just a desire to make something meaningful.

Now? They’re earning full-time incomes, changing lives, and working from beaches, coffee shops, or their living rooms.

Ready to join them? Let’s dive in.

(P.S. If you’re itching to start now, here’s our step-by-step guide to launching your blog—it takes less than 15 minutes.)

Note: Some information, like traffic, income, methods of monetization, etc., will usually change over time; the site itself might entirely be acquired and evolve into something else or even get terminated. We will try to keep the content as updated as we can, but we don’t guarantee its information will always be up to date at all times.

19 Examples Of Successful Blogs In Different Niches

  1. The Penny Hoarder
  2. Smart Passive Income
  3. Neil Patel
  4. Copyblogger
  5. The Blonde Salad
  6. Manuelavitulli
  7. Nomadic Matt
  8. The Points Guy
  9. TechCrunch
  10. Into The Gloss
  11. Minimalist Baker
  12. Nerd Fitness
  13. The Lean Green Bean
  14. The Dogington Post
  15. Modern Cat
  16. Scary Mommy
  17. BabyCenter
  18. A Beautiful Mess
  19. The Craft Patch

Examples of Finance & Business Blogs

[1]. The Penny Hoarder

Key Stats

The Penny Hoarder Early Beginning: How They Started

Kyle Taylor started The Penny Hoarder in 2010 as a personal blog to document his journey of paying off over $50,000 in debt.

Without a background in finance, Kyle focused on sharing real-life money tips, side hustle ideas, and savings hacks in a way that was both approachable and relatable. His authentic voice helped build trust and grow a loyal readership early on.

What Made The Penny Hoarder Succeed

  • ✅ Simple, relatable content – Instead of complex finance jargon, the blog shared everyday money tips that regular people could actually use.
  • ✅ Consistency over time – New articles were published frequently, helping the site grow a large library of helpful content and attract more traffic.
  • ✅ Strong focus on SEO – Most articles were optimized to rank well in Google, bringing in consistent organic traffic month after month.
  • ✅ Leveraged social media smartly – Facebook was used heavily in the early days to drive traffic with viral, shareable headlines and money-saving stories.
  • ✅ Grew trust through transparency – Readers felt like they were learning from someone who had “been there,” not a corporate finance expert.

How to Start a Blog Like The Penny Hoarder: Applying a Similar Strategy

  1. Pick a personal finance niche – This could be budgeting, side hustles, debt payoff, or money-saving tips. The key is to choose a topic you’re genuinely interested in and one that helps solve problems for others.
  2. Get your blog started online with HostGator – You’ll need hosting and a domain to start your blog. Click here to get started with HostGator, which is beginner-friendly and affordable.
  3. Create value-packed content – Write blog posts that are helpful, practical, and easy to understand. Focus on SEO so your posts show up in Google.
  4. Monetize your blog effectively – Use affiliate marketing and display ads to generate income from your blog.
  5. Promote on social media – Share your posts on Facebook, Pinterest, and other platforms to grow your reach and attract a loyal audience.

For More Details: Here is a step-by-step process to start a personal finance blog

[2]. Smart Passive Income

Key Stats

Smart Passive Income’s Early Beginning: How They Started

Smart Passive Income was founded by Pat Flynn in 2008 after he was laid off from his architecture job. What began as a blog to share his personal journey of making money online has evolved into a go-to platform for aspiring online entrepreneurs. Pat openly shares his wins, failures, blog income reports, and strategies, building trust and inspiring a global audience.

What Made Smart Passive Income Succeed

  • Authenticity: Pat built his brand by being transparent and real with his readers.
  • Valuable Content: He shares in-depth guides, tutorials, and real-life experiments that genuinely help people succeed online.
  • Diverse Income Streams: Pat didn’t rely on one method—he branched out into courses, affiliate products, speaking, and more.
  • Consistency: With nearly 1,000 blog posts, he’s stayed consistent over the years.
  • Engagement: He engages his audience with podcasts, newsletters, and personal stories, keeping them coming back.

How to Start a Blog Like Smart Passive Income: Applying a Similar Strategy

Ready to start your own version of a successful online business blog? Follow these steps:

  1. Choose Your Niche: Focus on something you’re knowledgeable about—whether it’s side hustles, online business tips, or personal finance. The key is to solve real problems.
  2. Set Up Your Blog: Click here to start with HostGator — it’s affordable, beginner-friendly, and you’ll get a discount with this link.
  3. Pick a Theme and Design Your Blog: Choose a clean, responsive theme that aligns with your niche. Keep it simple and professional.
  4. Create High-Value Content Consistently: Share useful blog posts, guides, and how-tos. Start with 10–20 helpful posts.
  5. Monetize Strategically: Begin with affiliate marketing or digital downloads, and later scale to courses or consulting like Pat did.

Further resources to start a similar blog

Examples of Marketing Blogs

[3]. Neil Patel Blog

Key Stats

  • Founder name: Neil Patel
  • Traffic: Over 3 million monthly visitors
  • Est. monthly income: $100,000+ (estimated, mostly from agency clients and tool subscriptions)
  • Methods of monetization: Consulting services, SaaS tools (like Ubersuggest), affiliate marketing, courses

NeilPatel.com Early Beginning: How They Started

Neil Patel started blogging as a way to share his knowledge in digital marketing while simultaneously building his personal brand and driving traffic to his consulting business. Early on, he focused heavily on SEO, in-depth content, and consistent publishing. His mission was simple: provide massive value through educational content—blogs, infographics, videos, and tutorials—without expecting anything in return right away.

He originally created content for businesses and marketers looking to improve their online visibility. Over time, this turned into a full-fledged marketing education empire, supplemented by tools like Ubersuggest and partnerships with major brands.

What Made NeilPatel.com Succeed

  • Deep Content & Education: Every post is in-depth, data-driven, and built to solve a specific pain point.
  • Consistency: Neil published regularly, often multiple times a week, in the early years.
  • SEO Mastery: He optimized everything—on-page SEO, long-tail keywords, backlinks—to rank consistently high on Google.
  • Personal Branding: He positioned himself as a thought leader by offering immense value and showing his face everywhere—on videos, guest posts, and podcasts.
  • Free Tools & Resources: The Ubersuggest tool helped boost traffic and trust among readers.
  • Global Reach: Neil tailored content for global audiences, even creating region-specific blogs.

How to Start a Blog Like NeilPatel.com Applying a Similar Strategy

Here’s a simple 5-step roadmap to starting your own successful blog using Neil Patel’s strategy:

  • Step 1: Choose a Profitable Niche – Pick a niche you’re passionate about and one that has a clear audience—digital marketing, fitness, personal finance, etc.
  • Step 2: Set Up Hosting – Start by hosting your blog with a trusted provider.
    👉 Click here to get started with HostGator — this discounted link gives you a special offer!
  • Step 3: Install WordPress and Choose a Professional Theme – Use WordPress to install a clean, mobile-optimized theme. Choose one that’s perfect for long-form content and easy navigation.
  • Step 4: Create Value-Packed Content – Start writing in-depth blog posts that solve real problems. Focus on SEO and helpfulness. Don’t hold back on value—give your best tips for free.
  • Step 5: Promote and Monetize Strategically – Use SEO, email marketing, and social sharing to grow your audience. Monetize your blog using affiliate links, coaching, tools, or services—just like Neil did.

[4]. Copyblogger

Key Stats

  • Founder name: Brian Clark
  • Traffic: 300,000+ monthly visitors
  • Est. monthly income: $200,000+
  • Methods of monetization: Courses, eBooks, affiliate marketing, SaaS (Rainmaker Platform)

Copyblogger Early Beginning: How They Started

Copyblogger was launched in 2006 by Brian Clark as a one-man blog aimed at helping people write better content for the web. Brian, already experienced in content marketing, saw the growing need for persuasive writing in the digital world. His early posts focused on copywriting techniques, blogging tips, and how to create content that converts readers into customers.

What started as a simple blog quickly grew into a content marketing empire. Over time, Copyblogger evolved into a multi-author platform and even launched its own software and membership products, setting a new standard for online content education.

What Made Copyblogger Succeed

  • Laser-focused niche: They zeroed in on content marketing and copywriting when the internet was still learning its value.
  • High-value content: Every article is packed with actionable, easy-to-understand tips—no fluff.
  • Trust-building consistency: Years of regular publishing built trust and authority in the industry.
  • Product-driven business model: They didn’t rely just on ads—they created tools and courses for their audience.
  • Engaging writing style: The posts are conversational, informative, and easy to digest, making readers come back for more.

How to Start a Blog Like Copyblogger: Applying a Similar Strategy

  1. Choose a Niche – Focus on a topic you’re knowledgeable about and passionate about. If content marketing or writing isn’t your thing, explore other evergreen blog post topic ideas to get inspired.
  2. Start Your Blog with a Reliable Host – Launch your blog using HostGator, an affordable and beginner-friendly platform that makes setup easy and quick.
  3. Write with Value in Mind – Your content should solve a problem, offer insight, or teach something useful. Copyblogger won by giving free, real value before asking for anything in return.
  4. Build Authority Through Consistency – Publish regularly and maintain a professional tone. Over time, this builds trust with both your audience and search engines.
  5. Monetize Smartly – Consider affiliate links, creating digital products, or offering services related to your niche, just like Copyblogger did with their eBooks and SaaS tools.

Examples of Fashion Blogs

[5]. The Blonde Salad

Key Stats

  • Founder Name: Chiara Ferragni
  • Traffic: 5M+ monthly visitors (at peak)
  • Est. Monthly Income: $300,000+ (from multi-channel monetization)
  • Methods of Monetization:
    • Fashion collaborations & sponsorships
    • Affiliate marketing (luxury brands)
    • Digital products (e-books, presets)
    • YouTube & Instagram brand deals

(Want to see real blog earnings? Check out these fashion blog income reports for inspiration.)

The Blonde Salad’s Early Beginning: How They Started

Launched in 2009 as a personal style diary, Chiara Ferragni turned The Blonde Salad into a global fashion empire.

She leveraged:

  • Visual Storytelling: High-quality outfit photos stood out in her early blogging days.
  • Niche Focus: Fashion + luxury travel (a highly profitable niche).
  • Social Media Synergy: Instagram growth fueled her blog’s traffic.

(New to blogging? Here’s how to start a fashion blog step-by-step.)

What Made The Blonde Salad Succeed

  1. Brand Partnerships – Worked with Dior, Chanel, and more. (Learn how to monetize a fashion blog.)
  2. Multi-Platform Presence – Blog + Instagram + YouTube.
  3. Authentic Voice – Shared personal style vs. rigid editorial content.
  4. SEO Optimization – Targeted keywords like “luxury fashion trends.” (Need SEO help? Use these best SEO tools for bloggers.)

How to Start a Blog Like The Blonde Salad (In 5 Steps)

  1. Pick a Niche – Fashion, beauty, or travel. (See more profitable niches.)
  2. Set Up Your Blog – Use HostGator (affordable + 1-click WordPress install).
  3. Choose a Theme – Opt for sleek, image-heavy designs like these best WordPress themes.
  4. Create Viral-Worthy Content – Outfits, tutorials, trend reports. (Get fashion blog post ideas.)
  5. Monetize Early – Start with affiliate links (e.g., RewardStyle) or sponsorships.

Further Resources

[6]. Manuelavitulli

Key Stats

  • Founder Name: Manuela Vitulli
  • Traffic: 1.2M+ monthly visitors (peak seasons)
  • Est. Monthly Income: $80,000+
  • Methods of Monetization:
    • Luxury fashion collaborations
    • Affiliate marketing (high-end brands)
    • Sponsored Instagram content
    • Exclusive style guides (digital products)

(Curious about earnings? See real fashion blog income reports for benchmarks.)

Manuelavitulli’s Early Beginning: How It Started

Launched as a personal style blog in 2015, Manuela leveraged:

  • Niche Authority: Focused on high-end Italian fashion (a lucrative blogging niche).
  • Visual Aesthetic: Stunning photography sets it apart.
  • Social Proof: Early collaborations with Italian designers.

(Start your own fashion blog with this step-by-step guide.)

What Made Manuelavitulli Succeed

  1. Luxury Brand Alignments – Partnered with Gucci, Prada, etc. (Learn how fashion blogs monetize.)
  2. SEO-Optimized Content – Targeted keywords like “Italian luxury street style.” (Boost traffic with these SEO tools for bloggers.)
  3. Engagement-Driven – Interactive Instagram Stories and blog comments.
  4. Consistency posting – 3-4 posts/week for 1+ years.

How to Start a Blog Like Manuelavitulli (5 Steps)

  1. Choose a Niche – Luxury fashion, Italian style, or travel fashion. (Explore profitable niches here.)
  2. Launch Your Blog – Use HostGator (reliable + WordPress-ready).
  3. Pick a Theme – Elegant designs like these best WordPress themes.
  4. Create Signature Content – Lookbooks, designer interviews, trend forecasts. (Get fashion blog post ideas.)
  5. Monetize Fast – Apply to affiliate networks (e.g., ShopStyle) ASAP.

Pro Tips to Emulate Their Success

  • Instagram Integration: Follow this Instagram for blogging guide.
  • Content Upgrades: Sell exclusive style guides (like Manuela’s eBooks).
  • Networking: Attend fashion weeks (virtual/in-person) for collaborations.

Further Resources

Start a similar fashion blog

Examples of Travel Blogs

[7]. Nomadic Matt

✈️ Key Stats

  • Founder Name: Matt Kepnes
  • Traffic: 1.5M+ monthly visitors
  • Est. Monthly Income: $150,000+
  • Monetization Methods:
    • Affiliate marketing (travel gear, insurance, booking sites)
    • Book sales (“How to Travel the World on $50 a Day”)
    • Sponsored content & partnerships
    • Online courses (travel hacking, blogging)

(Want to see how other travel blogs earn? Check out these travel blog income reports.)

🌍 How Nomadic Matt Started

Matt launched his blog in 2008 after quitting his 9-to-5 job to travel the world. What began as a personal travel diary turned into a go-to resource for budget travel tips after his posts went viral.

Key moments:

  • 2009: Wrote a viral post on “How to Travel Thailand for $30/Day.”
  • 2010: Published his first book, which became a bestseller.
  • 2012: Started monetizing heavily with affiliates and sponsors.

(Dream of starting a travel blog? Here’s a step-by-step guide to launching yours.)

🚀 What Made Nomadic Matt Successful

  1. Ultra-Useful Content – Matt’s guides (e.g., “How to Find Cheap Flights”) solved real problems.
  2. SEO Mastery – He targeted long-tail keywords like “best hostels in Europe” early on.
  3. Multiple Income Streams – Didn’t rely on just ads; added books, courses, and speaking gigs.
  4. Authenticity – Shared his failures (like getting scammed) alongside wins.

(Want to grow your own blog’s traffic? Try these 6 proven traffic-boosting strategies.)

How to Start a Travel Blog Like Nomadic Matt

  1. Carve Your Niche – Backpacking? Luxury? Family travel? Find gaps like Matt did.(Compare profitable blogging niches first.)
  2. Set Up Professionally – Use HostGator (Matt’s original host) for reliable WordPress hosting.
  3. Create Pillar Content – 5-10 definitive guides (e.g., “X Tips for First-Time Solo Travelers”).
  4. Monetize Early – Join travel affiliate programs (Booking.com, Amazon Travel).
  5. Leverage Community – Engage in Facebook groups and Reddit threads.

📚 Other Free Resources to Help You

[8]. The Points Guy

Key Stats:

  • Founder’s name: Brian Kelly
  • Traffic: ~10M monthly visitors (estimated)
  • Est. monthly income: $500K+ (from affiliates, ads, and partnerships)
  • Methods of monetization: Affiliate marketing, sponsored content, display ads, credit card partnerships, and premium content.

The Points Guy Early Beginning: How They Started

Brian Kelly launched The Points Guy in 2010 as a side hustle to share travel hacking tips. His passion for maximizing credit card points and airline miles resonated with readers, and the blog grew rapidly due to its actionable advice and data-driven approach.

What Made The Points Guy Succeed

  1. Niche expertise: Focused on a lucrative niche (travel rewards) with high affiliate potential.
  2. SEO optimization: Targeted high-intent keywords like “best travel credit cards.”
  3. Diverse monetization: Leveraged multiple income streams beyond ads.
  4. Engaging content: Mixed tutorials, reviews, and news to keep readers hooked.

How to Start a Blog Like The Points Guy (5 Steps)

  1. Choose a niche: Pick a profitable niche like travel rewards, personal finance, or luxury deals.
  2. Set up hosting: Use HostGator for reliable hosting, a free domain, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
  3. Create SEO-friendly content: Target keywords like “how to earn travel points” (Free Guide: How To Write A High-Quality Blog Post).
  4. Monetize early: Combine affiliate links (e.g., credit cards) and ads (Best Blog Advertising Networks).
  5. Promote aggressively: Use social media and email marketing (How To Promote Your Blog).

Resources to Start a Similar Blog

Examples of Tech Blogs

[9]. TechCrunch

💻 Key Stats

  • Founder Name: Michael Arrington
  • Traffic: 30M+ monthly visitors (SimilarWeb)
  • Est. Monthly Income: $2M+ (ads, subscriptions, events)
  • Monetization Methods:
    • Display ads & sponsored content (high CPMs in tech)
    • TechCrunch Disrupt (ticket sales & sponsorships)
    • Extra Crunch (premium subscription service)
    • Affiliate commissions (SaaS tools, gadgets)
    • Acquisitions (AOL bought it for $25M in 2010)
      (Curious how other tech blogs monetize? Explore these tech blog income reports.)

🚀 How TechCrunch Started

Launched in 2005 as a side project by lawyer-turned-blogger Michael Arrington, TechCrunch began as a scrappy startup chronicle. It’s breaking news on Silicon Valley funding rounds (like early Facebook and Uber coverage) made it a must-read for investors.

Pivotal Moments:

  • 2007: Broke the news of Apple’s iPhone launch, skyrocketing credibility.
  • 2010: Sold to AOL for $25M, this proves that niche blogs can both be very profitable and scalable too.
  • 2015: Launched Disrupt, a flagship startup competition.
    (Want to start a tech blog? Here’s how to launch a profitable tech blog in 2025.)

🔥 What Made TechCrunch a Giant

  1. Speed & Exclusivity: Published leaks and funding scoops hours before mainstream media.
  2. Data-Driven Stories: Used CrunchBase (its startup database) to back analysis.
  3. Diversified Revenue: Combined ads, subscriptions, and live events.
  4. Authority Building: Hired ex-founders and VCs as writers for insider takes.
    (Need traffic like TechCrunch? Master these effective blog traffic growth hacks.)

💡 How to Start a Tech Blog Like TechCrunch

  1. Niche Down: Cover AI, cybersecurity, or startups—not just “tech” (profitable niches).
  2. Go Self-Hosted: Use HostGator (with 99.9% uptime for news-heavy sites).
  3. Break News: Interview founders or analyze SEC filings for exclusives.
  4. Monetize Smart:
    • Join SaaS affiliate programs (e.g., Webflow, AWS).
    • Sell sponsorships to tech tools (ad network guide).
  5. Leverage SEO: Target keywords like “best CRM for startups” (SEO tools).

📚 Free Resources to Help You

Examples of Beauty & Skincare Blogs

[10]. Into The Gloss: Beauty Blog

✨ Key Stats

  • Founder Name: Emily Weiss
  • Traffic: ~2M monthly visitors (estimated)
  • Est. Monthly Income: $300K+ (brand deals, affiliate sales, Glossier spin-off)
  • Monetization Methods:
    • Affiliate marketing (Sephora, Cult Beauty)
    • Sponsored content (luxury beauty brands)
    • Product collabs (led to launching Glossier)
    • Premium ads (high-end beauty advertisers)
      (Wondering how other beauty blogs make money? Check out these beauty blog income reports.)

💄 How Into The Gloss Started

Emily Weiss launched Into The Gloss in 2010 as a side project while working at Vogue. Unlike traditional beauty blogs, it focused on real routines (“Top Shelf” interviews with models, makeup artists, and celebs) instead of just reviews.

Game-Changing Moments:

  • 2011: “Top Shelf” series went viral—readers loved the unfiltered beauty confessions.
  • 2014: Used blog insights to launch Glossier, a cult-favorite beauty brand.
  • 2020: Blog became a content arm for Glossier’s marketing.
    (Want to start a beauty blog? Here’s how to launch a makeup blog that stands out.)

🔥 Why Into The Gloss Succeeded

✅ Authenticity Over Ads – Readers trusted it because it felt like a friend’s advice, not an ad.
✅ Community-Driven – Comments section was as lively as the posts.
✅ SEO with a Twist – Ranked for long-tail queries like “What moisturizer do French women use?”
✅ Monetized Beyond Ads – Turned audience insights into a physical product line (Glossier).
(Want loyal readers? Learn how to increase your blog’s retention time.)

How to Start a Beauty Blog Like Into The Gloss

  1. Find Your Angle – Don’t just review products—do “Get Ready With Me” breakdowns or industry deep-dives (e.g., “Why Korean skincare dominates”).
    (Need niche ideas? Explore profitable blogging niches.)
  2. Build a Visually Stunning Site
    • Use clean, photo-heavy layouts (like ITG).
    • Start with HostGator for fast, image-friendly hosting.
  3. Leverage UGC (User-Generated Content) – Feature real readers’ routines (like ITG’s “Top Shelf”).
    (Need engagement tips? Try these strategies to boost comments.)
  4. Monetize Beyond Affiliate Links
    • Pitch branded content deals (e.g., “Sponsored by La Mer”).
    • Consider your own product line (like Glossier).
  5. Master Pinterest & Instagram – 80% of beauty blog traffic comes from visuals.
    (Learn how to use Instagram for blogging.)

Extra Resources

Examples of Food & Recipes Blogs

[11]. Minimalist Baker: A Recipe for Blogging Success

🥑 Key Stats

  • Founder Name: Dana Shultz
  • Traffic: ~5M monthly visitors
  • Est. Monthly Income: $200K+ (affiliate sales, ads, cookbooks)
  • Monetization Methods:
    • Affiliate marketing (kitchen tools, pantry staples)
    • Display ads (Mediavine)
    • Cookbook sales (4 best-selling books)
    • Sponsored partnerships (branded recipe development)
      (Curious about food blog earnings? See real food blog income reports.)

🍞 How Minimalist Baker Started

Dana launched the blog in 2012 as a creative outlet while working a corporate job. The “10 ingredients or less, 1 bowl, or 30 minutes or less” concept filled a gap for time-strapped home cooks.

Pivotal Moments:

  • 2013: Went viral with her “Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies“ (still one of her most popular recipes).
  • 2015: Published her first cookbook, hitting the NY Times bestseller list.
  • 2018: Expanded the team but kept content quality consistent.
    (Dream of starting a food blog? Here’s how to launch a food blog in 2025.)

🔥 Why Minimalist Baker Succeeded

✅ Ultra-Specific Niche – Not just “vegan food” but simple, fast plant-based recipes.
✅ SEO-Optimized Recipes – Ranked for searches like “easy vegan banana bread”.
✅ Stunning Photography – Every recipe had a hero shot that made readers want to cook.
✅ Multiple Revenue Streams – Didn’t rely solely on ads; diversified with books and affiliates.
(Want to rank higher? Master these SEO tips for bloggers.)

🍳 How to Start a Food Blog Like Minimalist Baker

  1. Carve Out Your Niche – Avoid a generic “food blog” – focus on dietary needs (gluten-free, keto) or cooking style (1-pot meals).
    (Not sure? Explore profitable food blog niches.)
  2. Set Up a Professional Site
  3. Master Food Photography – Natural light + styled shots = higher Pinterest traffic.
    (Learn food photography tips.)
  4. Monetize Early
    • Join Amazon Associates (for kitchen gear) and Thrive Market (for pantry staples). Find high-paying affiliate topic ideas.
    • Apply for ad networks (like Mediavine) once you hit 50K sessions.
  5. Repurpose Content – Turn top recipes into YouTube videos or Instagram Reels.
    (Need video ideas? Try these content repurposing hacks.)

📚 Extra Resources

Examples of Health and Fitness Blogs

[12]. Nerd Fitness: Leveling Up the Fitness Blogging Game

🏋️ Key Stats

  • Founder Name: Steve Kamb
  • Traffic: ~3M monthly visitors
  • Est. Monthly Income: $500k+ (courses, coaching, affiliate sales)
  • Monetization Methods:
    • Online coaching programs (Rebel Fitness Academy)
    • Affiliate marketing (fitness gear, supplements)
    • Premium courses (NF Academy, RPG-style fitness challenges)
    • Book sales (“Level Up Your Life”)
      (Want to see how fitness blogs earn? Check out these fitness blog income reports.)

🎮 How Nerd Fitness Started

Steve launched Nerd Fitness in 2009 to help “underdogs, misfits, and nerds” get fit without gym bro culture. His RPG-inspired approach (complete with “quests” and “leveling up”) made fitness fun for gamers and pop culture fans.

Game-Changing Milestones:

  • 2012: Went viral with “The 20-Minute Hotel Room Workout” (perfect for traveling geeks).
  • 2015: Launched Rebel Fitness Academy, a paid coaching program.
  • 2018: Published “Level Up Your Life”, blending fitness and personal growth.
    (Want to start a fitness blog? Here’s how to launch a fitness blog that stands out.)

🔥 Why Nerd Fitness Crushed It

✅ Niche Storytelling – Framed workouts as “Skyrim for your body” and diets as “Zelda heart containers.”
✅ Community Power – Built a 100K+ Facebook group of “Rebels” supporting each other.
✅ Multi-Platform Empire – Blog + courses + book + podcast = revenue diversity.
✅ SEO for Nerds – Ranked for “beginner bodyweight workout” and “how to lose weight as a gamer.”
(Need engagement tips? Learn how to build a loyal blog community.)

💪 How to Start a Fitness Blog Like Nerd Fitness

🚀 How to Start Your Own Fitness Blog (Inspired by Nerd Fitness)

  1. Choose Your Niche (Be Specific!)
    • Instead of “fitness,” pick something like:
      ✓ “Gamer Fitness”
      ✓ “Busy Parent Workouts”
      ✓ “Desk Job Stretches”
      (Need help choosing? Check out these profitable fitness niches.)
  2. Set Up Your Blog (3 Simple Steps)
    • Get Hosting: Use HostGator (1-click WordPress install)
    • Pick a Domain: Choose something memorable like FitGeekHQ.com
    • Install a Theme: Use “Astra” or “GeneratePress” for fast loading
  3. Create Key Content (Start With These 3 Posts)
    • 1 Pillar Post: “The Busy Gamer’s Fitness Guide”
    • 1 Personal Story: “How I Got Fit Without Quitting Video Games”
    • 1 Product Review: “Best Budget Fitness Gear for Beginners”
      (More ideas? See fitness post topics.
  4. 5. Make Money Fast (3 Easy Ways)
    • Affiliate Links: Share gear you use (Amazon, MyProtein)
    • Digital Products: Sell a $5 “7-Day Workout PDF”
    • Ads: Apply for on the go, and when your blog reaches 50k/month visitors, you can use Mediavine for a higher ad revenue. See other monetization methods.

Pro Tip: Focus on building an email list from Day 1!

  1. (Ready to start? Get hosting here and launch today.)

📚 Extra Resources

[13]. The Lean Green Bean

Key Stats Include:

  • Founder’s Name: Lindsay Livingston (Registered Dietitian)
  • Traffic: 100,000+ monthly pageviews (estimated)
  • Est. monthly income: $10,000–$21,000 (via ads, affiliates, eBooks, and sponsorships)
  • Methods of monetization:
    • Sponsored content (brand partnerships)
    • Affiliate marketing (Amazon Associates, health product recommendations)
    • Ad revenue (Mediavine)
    • Digital products (meal plans, eBooks)

The Lean Green Bean’s Early Beginning: How They Started

Lindsay Livingston, a registered dietitian, launched The Lean Green Bean in 2011 as a passion project to share simple, healthy recipes and fitness tips. Unlike many food blogs at the time, she combined her professional expertise with a relatable, down-to-earth writing style.

Her early success came from:

  • Consistent posting (2-3 times per week). [How often should you publish blog posts]
  • SEO optimization (targeting long-tail keywords like “easy meal prep for weight loss”)
  • Pinterest growth (her visually appealing recipe pins went viral)
  • Engaging storytelling (sharing her personal health journey)

Within two years, she monetized through affiliate links and later joined Mediavine, scaling her income significantly.

What Made the Blog Succeed

  1. Authority & Credibility – Lindsay’s RD certification made her a trusted voice in nutrition.
  2. Content Variety – Recipes, meal prep guides, fitness tips, and nutrition advice kept readers engaged.
  3. Strong Visual Branding – High-quality food photography and a clean, easy-to-navigate site.
  4. Multiple Income Streams – Diversified beyond ads with eBooks, coaching, and sponsorships.
  5. Community Building – Active on Instagram and Facebook groups, fostering loyalty.

How to Start a Blog Like The Lean Green Bean (5 Simple Steps)

  1. Pick a Profitable Niche – Health, fitness, or wellness (e.g., “budget meal prep” or “quick home workouts”). Need ideas? Check Most Profitable Blogging Niches.
  2. Set Up Hosting & Domain – Use HostGator (reliable web hosting + free domain + 30-day guarantee). Follow this guide on: How to Start a Similar Blog.
  3. Design Your Blog – Install WordPress and a lightweight theme (like Astra). Optimize for speed: Best WordPress Themes.
  4. Create SEO-Optimized Content – Use keyword research tools to find low-competition terms. Write in-depth guides: How to Write High-Quality Posts.
  5. Monetize Strategically – Start with affiliate marketing (Best Ad Networks) and scale to ads (Mediavine) and digital products.

Resources to Start a Similar Blog

Examples of Pet Blogs

[14]. The Dogington Post

Key Facts (2025):

  • Founder: Harlan Kilstein
  • Traffic: ~2M monthly visits (SimilarWeb/Semrush estimates)
  • Monetization:
    • Display Ads (Direct sales + network ads)
    • Affiliate Links (Chewy, Amazon Pets)
    • Sponsored Content (Branded articles)
    • E-commerce (Dogington Post merch store)

What Actually Made It Successful:

  1. News-Style Format – Unlike personal pet blogs, it publishes daily dog news (viral stories, recalls, vet advice).
  2. Authority Content – Partners with vets for medical articles (adds credibility).
  3. Social Dominance – 1M+ Facebook followers (viral sharing drives traffic).
  4. Revenue Diversity – Doesn’t rely only on ads (has 4+ income streams).

5-Step Shortcut to Replicate Their Model:

  1. Niche Down – “Dog news” is broad; try subtopics like senior dog care or dog product recalls.
  2. Steal Their Content Formula – Mix:
    • 50% news (trending topics)
    • 30% guides (“How to spot X disease”)
    • 20% viral content (funny memes/videos)
  3. Prioritize Facebook/Pinterest – Their top traffic sources.
  4. Monetize Early – Start with Chewy affiliate program (high pet product commissions).
  5. Repurpose Content – Turn articles into Instagram Reels/TikToks.

Verified Resources to Start:

[15]. Modern Cat

Key Stats

  • Founder name: Connie Wilson
  • Traffic: 500K+ monthly visits (estimated via SimilarWeb)
  • Est. monthly income: $8,000 − $15,000 (from ads, affiliates, and print magazine)
  • Methods of monetization:
    • Premium display ads (Mediavine)
    • Affiliate marketing (Chewy, Amazon Pets)
    • Sponsored content
    • Print magazine subscriptions

Modern Cat’s Early Beginning: How They Started

Founded in 2011, Modern Cat began as a digital magazine targeting stylish cat owners. The founder leveraged her design background to create visually appealing content that stood out in the pet niche. Starting with just 2-3 posts weekly, they grew through consistent Pinterest marketing and collaborations with cat product brands.

What Made the Blog Succeed

  1. Premium positioning: Focused on “design-conscious cat owners” rather than general pet content
  2. Visual-first approach: High-quality photography and clean layouts
  3. Diversified content: Mix of product roundups, behavior guides, and viral cat stories
  4. Multiple revenue streams: Didn’t rely solely on ads (added print mag and merch)
  5. Authority building: Partnered with veterinarians for expert content

How to Start a Blog Like Modern Cat (5 Steps)

  1. Choose your cat niche (e.g., “luxury cat products” or “apartment cats”) → Most Profitable Blogging Niches
  2. Get started with HostGator (free domain + 1-click WordPress install)
  3. Create pillar content:
    • “Best [product] for cats” roundups
    • Cat behavior explainers
    • Viral cat story posts
  4. Optimize for visual appeal: Use Best WordPress Themes
  5. Monetize fast: Start with Chewy Affiliate Program and scale to Mediavine

Further Resources to Start a Similar Blog

Mom & Parenting

[16]. Scary Mommy

Key Stats Include

  • Founder name: Jill Smokler (started as a personal blog in 2008)
  • Traffic: 10M+ monthly visits (SimilarWeb)
  • Est. monthly income: $200K+ (via ads, affiliates, books)
  • Methods of monetization:
    • Display ads (Raptive)
    • Affiliate marketing (Amazon, parenting brands)
    • Sponsored content
    • Book deals
    • Merchandise

Scary Mommy’s Early Beginning: How They Started

Began as a photo blog documenting Jill’s parenting journey, then pivoted to raw, humorous parenting content. Viral success came from relatable “mom confessions” and controversial parenting takes.

What Made the Scary Mom Blog Succeed

  1. Authentic voice: Unfiltered takes on parenting struggles
  2. Community focus: Built a mom contributor network
  3. Viral content strategy: Shareable listicles and confessionals
  4. Diversified revenue: Books, merch, and branded content
  5. SEO optimization: Targeted emotional parenting keywords

How to Start a Blog Like Scary Mommy (5 Steps)

  1. Niches: “Real mom life” or “parenting unfiltered” → Most Profitable Niches
  2. Setup: HostGator + WordPress → Blog Setup Guide
  3. Content pillars:
    • Confessional posts
    • “Why I Let My Kid…” hot takes
    • Viral parenting memes
  4. Monetize: Join Google AdSense on the go, and when you reach 100k/month visitors, you can join Raptive for higher ad payout (find more → Ad Networks)
  5. Grow: Promotion Strategies + Facebook groups

Resources to Start a Similar Blog

[17]. BabyCenter Blog

Key Stats

  • Founder: MBA graduates Matt Glickman and Mark Selcow.
  • Monthly Traffic: 30M+ visitors (SimilarWeb)
  • Est. Monthly Revenue: $1M+ (via ads, partnerships, premium content)
  • Primary Monetization:
    • Targeted display advertising
    • Sponsored content from baby brands
    • Affiliate partnerships (Amazon Baby Registry)
    • Premium subscription service (BabyCenter Plus)
    • Data-driven product recommendations

BabyCenter’s Early Beginning: How They Started

Launched in 1997 as one of the first online parenting resources, initially offering free weekly pregnancy emails. Pioneered the “by-the-week” pregnancy tracking format that became an industry standard. Due to its success, the blog has been acquired several times since its creation in 1997, and was last acquired by Everyday Health Group on August 28, 2024.

What Made the BabyCenter Blog Succeed

  1. Scientific Authority: Partnered with medical advisors to build trust
  2. Personalization: Customized content by pregnancy week/baby age
  3. Community Building: Created one of the largest parenting forums online
  4. Multimedia Approach: Added interactive tools (due date calculator)
  5. Global Expansion: Localized content for 9 international markets

How to Start a Blog Like BabyCenter (5 Steps)

  1. Choose Your Parenting Niche – “Pregnancy Week-by-Week” or “Newborn Care” → Most Profitable Niches
  2. Set Up your blog with HostGator – Get hosting + free domain → Blog Setup Guide
  3. Create Core Content Pillars
  4. Build Community Features
  5. Monetize Strategically

Resources to Start a Similar Blog

Examples of DIY Craft Blogs

[18]. A Beautiful Mess

Key Stats Include

  • Founders: Elsie Larson and Emma Chapman (sister duo)
  • Monthly Traffic: 1.5M+ visits (SimilarWeb)
  • Est. Monthly Income:$75k − $150k
  • Monetization Methods:
    • Premium ad placements
    • Product lines (wallpapers, planners)
    • Affiliate marketing
    • Sponsored content
    • Online courses
    • Book deals

A Beautiful Mess: Early Beginning How They Started

Began in 2007 as a DIY/craft blog by Elsie, expanded when sister Emma joined. Pioneered the “happy handmade” aesthetic before Instagram made it mainstream. Their first viral post was a homemade headband tutorial.

What Made the Blog Succeed

  1. Signature Aesthetic: Instantly recognizable pastel+woodgrain style
  2. Product Ecosystem: Created 12+ revenue streams beyond ads
  3. Relatable Voice: Sisters’ authentic dynamic attracted loyal followers
  4. Early Pinterest Adoption: Dominated DIY category when the platform launched
  5. Content Upgrades: Free printables → premium products

How to Start a Blog Like A Beautiful Mess (5 Steps)

  1. Define Your Visual Brand – Choose cohesive colors/fonts → Best WordPress Themes
  2. Launch with HostGator – Get started → How to Start a Blog
  3. Create Signature Content Types:
    • Step-by-step photo tutorials
    • Seasonal challenge series (ex: “30 Days of Handmade”)
    • Behind-the-scenes biz updates
  4. Build Multiple Income Streams
  5. Master Pinterest – Vertical pins with bold text → Pinterest Strategy

Resources to Start a Similar Blog

Pro Tip: Study their product ladder strategy – they systematically move readers from:

  1. Free content (blog tutorials) →
  2. Low-cost printables ($5 − $10) →
  3. Mid-range products ($29 − $99 courses) →
  4. Premium offerings (physical products like their Blogger’s Planner for $50 − $130).

Their “Blogger’s Planner” alone generated $500k+ in sales by:

  • Creating demand through free planning content first
  • Offering multiple versions (digital + physical)
  • Bundling with bonuses (stickers, tutorials)

Why This Works for Craft Blogs:

  • Leverages Existing Audience – Converts readers into customers
  • Builds Trust – Readers “try before they buy” with free content
  • Scales Revenue – Caters to different budget levels

How to start a similar DIY craft blog

[19]. The Craft Patch

Key Stats;

  • Founder: Jessica (started in 2013)
  • Monthly Traffic: 300K+ visits (SimilarWeb)
  • Est. Monthly Income: $15k − $30k
  • Monetization Methods:
    • Display ads (Mediavine)
    • Craft eBook sales
    • Affiliate marketing (Amazon, craft stores)
    • Sponsored content
    • Printable templates
    • YouTube ad revenue

The Craft Patch Early Beginning: How They Started

Jessica began as a hobby blogger sharing simple craft tutorials while raising young kids. Her first viral post was a “No-Sew Fleece Blanket” tutorial that still drives traffic today.

What Made the Craft Patch Blog Succeed

  1. Beginner-Friendly Focus: Projects requiring minimal supplies/skills
  2. Seasonal Content Strategy: Halloween/Christmas crafts = 60% of annual traffic
  3. Pinterest Dominance: Vertical tutorial images with clear numbering
  4. Diversified Income: From ads to digital products
  5. Relatable Voice: “Mom crafting during naptime” persona

How to Start a Blog Like The Craft Patch (5 Steps)

  1. Niche Down in Crafts – “Quick Kids Crafts” or “Dollar Store DIYs” → Most Profitable Niches
  2. Launch with HostGator – Beginner-friendly setup → Blog Setup Guide
  3. Create Tutorial Content:
    • Step-by-step photos (natural lighting)
    • Supply lists with affiliate links
    • “5-Minute Craft” series
  4. Monetize Early
  5. Master Pinterest SEO – Keyword-rich pin descriptions → Pinterest Strategy

Resources to Start a Similar Blog

Key Insight: 80% of their traffic comes from just 20 seasonal posts. Their “Easy Fall Crafts” roundup alone generates 50K+ visits annually. Focus on creating cornerstone seasonal content that gets repinned year after year.

Starter Guide – How to start a similar DIY craft blog

What All Successful Blogs Have in Common

After analyzing top-performing blogs like Modern Cat, Scary Mommy, and A Beautiful Mess, we found these 3 non-negotiable success factors:

1️⃣ Long-Term Commitment (3+ Years Active)

These blogs didn’t go viral overnight. Their staying power allowed them to:

2️⃣ Strategic Internal Linking

These sites masterfully connect their content to:

3️⃣ Loyal Repeat Visitors

They cultivate communities through:

Your 30-Day Plan to Start a Money-Making Blog

Week 1: Setup

✅ Day 1-3: Pick a niche (use Profitable Niches Guide)
✅ Day 4-5: Get hosting & domain with HostGator
✅ Day 6-7: Install WordPress + simple theme

Week 2-3: Content

✅ Day 8-10: Write 3 posts (1 ultimate guide + 2 how-tos)
✅ Day 11-20: Publish posts + add images
✅ Day 21: Set up free email list

Week 4: Traffic & Money

✅ Day 22-25: Share posts on Pinterest daily
✅ Day 26-28: Join Amazon Affiliates
✅ Day 29-30: Check stats & celebrate!

Goal by Day 30:

  • 5 live posts
  • 25 email signups
  • First affiliate sale

Need help? → Start a Blog Guide (Takes just 1 hour/day!)


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