The New Media Flywheel: Content and Data with Craig Fuller of Freightwaves

Craig Fuller, Founder and CEO of FreightWaves which began as a combination media company and data provider for the logistics industry, joins Erik Torenberg to discuss the evolution of FreightWaves, different media models and their scalability, and shares his thoughts on what the future of AI media will look like.

Listen on Spotify, Apple, and Subscribe on YouTube

Key Takeaways:

• Consider incubating a combination media and data business to leverage the power of both industries.

• Choose the right business model for your media company based on the industry, audience, and revenue potential.

• Media businesses are underrated. They offer unique opportunities for growth and influence.

• Vertical media businesses can be successful by going deep in a specific industry and monetizing valuable insights.

• Breaking news is important for building a reputation and becoming a trusted source in the industry. Media has the power to shape industries and influence public opinion.

• Providing context and credibility is crucial for building a strong media brand.

• Different media models offer varying levels of scalability and flexibility.

• Building a media business focused on a specific topic, such as AI, can be a successful strategy.

• The choice between independent contributors and hired journalists has its pros and cons.

• Scaling a media business requires careful consideration of budget and resource allocation.

• Optimizing for exit can be a strategic goal for media companies.

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LINKS:
FreightWaves: https://www.freightwaves.com/ 

X/ TWITTER:
@eriktorenberg (Erik)
@FreightAlley (Craig)

TIMESTAMPS:
(00:00) Intro
(00:15) The Evolution of Freight Waves
(03:01) Breaking Down Media Business Models and Monetization Strategies
(08:42) Complex Landscape of Media and Audience Engagement
(12:35) Sponsor: Turpentine
(13:26) Strategic Synergy Between Media and SaaS Businessess
(17:27) Underrated Potential of Media Businesses
(27:35) Opportunities and Challenges of Niche Media
(29:59) Vertical Media Opportunities Across Industries
(30:54) Dynamics of Media in the Supply Chain Industry
(32:33) Expanding Media Ventures
(33:41) Potential for Vertical Media in AI and Crypto
(35:39) Critique and Future of Tech Journalism
(37:34) Strategies and Challenges of Building a Vertical Media Business
(43:06) Importance of Breaking News and Building Credibility
(48:48) Evaluating Business Models for a New Media Venture
(58:06) Wrap

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