Content Curation Over Creation

A framework for building successful content businesses through curation rather than original creation, based on insights from successful entrepreneurs.

Core Philosophy

• Creating original content is much harder than curating existing content
• Many successful businesses are built on curating and distilling others' ideas
• You don't need original ideas to create value - can package existing content in better ways

Successful Examples

• The Hustle (Sam Parr's newsletter)
• Milk Road (crypto newsletter)
• 5 Tweet Tuesday (Shaan's newsletter)
  • Highest rated newsletter he's made
  • Easiest to produce
  • Simply curates 5 interesting tweets weekly
  • Gets most feedback compared to original content

Why Curation Works

• Fills gap for meaning/purpose, especially for younger generations
  • Example: Ryan Holiday with Daily Stoic
  • Introduced ancient stoicism to millions of Gen Z/millennials
  • Took existing philosophy and made it accessible
• Can be monetized through multiple channels
  • Courses
  • Books
  • Physical products (e.g. Daily Stoic's "Memento Mori" medallion)
  • Makes millions selling simple physical items to engaged audience

Business Model Benefits

• Lower production costs than original content
• Easier to scale
• More consistent quality
• Can focus on packaging/distribution rather than creation
• Builds on proven ideas rather than testing new ones

Key Success Factors

• Strong curation skills
• Understanding your audience
• Consistent delivery system
• Clear value proposition
• Smart monetization strategy
• Building community around curated content