Most brands build a list. The best brands build a community.
In this episode, Jimmy and Chase break down the difference between having subscribers and creating a true brand community and why it matters more than ever. From Glossier to Gymshark to Peloton, the brands winning in today’s market are the ones turning one-way messages into two-way conversations (and multi-way customer connections).
You’ll learn how to use email and SMS as your foundation for community, why identity-based value beats discounts every time, and how to grow without diluting the vibe. Whether you’re just getting started or scaling an engaged tribe, this one’s packed with frameworks, examples, and takeaways you can apply now.
EP 35: Beyond the List: Building Engaged Brand Communities Online
Here's what we're diving into:
- The key difference between subscriber lists and brand communities
- How to use email & SMS as your core community channels
- 3 frameworks for intentional community design
- Value exchange strategies that go beyond discounts
- Concentric circle growth: how to scale without losing authenticity
- Ways to integrate community into your current email/SMS program
- Full-funnel community building (starting with retention, then acquisition)
Thank you our friends at Omnisend, Raleon and eCom Email Certified for sponsoring the podcast!
Omnisend is an all in one eCommerce email and SMS marketing automation platform that enables marketers to engage customers and drive sales through personalized experiences. https://eemtrk.com/omnisend-sendit
Raleon is your AI-powered retention team built to help Shopify brands increase LTV and save hours every week. From segmentation to campaign planning, Raleon automates the grind so you can focus on strategy that scales. https://eemtrk.com/sendit-raleon
eCom Email Certified is a hands-on, results-driven program with a step-by-step guide to mastering retention marketing and driving serious results. Access over 25 hours of learnings and become a certified email & SMS marketer. https://eemtrk.com/eec-sendit
Join our community of 320+ Retention marketers! https://eemtrk.com/eecc-sendit
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00:00 Introduction to Community Building
02:31 Defining Brand Community vs. Subscriber Lists
07:47 Using Email & SMS as Community Foundation
15:40 Intentional Community Design
25:32 Value-Based Community Framework
28:17 Peloton and Glossier: Community Success Stories
30:44 Concentric Circle Model for Community Growth
38:15 Integrating Community Building into Marketing Operations
43:08 Full Funnel Community Approach
48:54 Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts
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Enjoying the pod? Subscribe to The eCom Email Marketer Newsletter for your weekly dose of retention strategy, actionable insights, & exclusive industry news! http://ecomemailmarketer.com/
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Follow Jimmy & Chase on social!
Follow Jimmy Kim at:
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Follow Chase Dimond at:
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Contact us at hellosenditpodcast@gmail.com for sponsorships, appearance requests, interviews, or general information!
