My First Million
The best business ideas come from noticing what's working and doing it better, faster, or for a different audience.
Create controversial or interesting story, then pitch directly to journalists
Why It Works
Journalists need interesting content to write about; businesses with good stories are rare and appreciated
Prerequisites
How to Execute
Do something genuinely newsworthy (don't just claim to be newsworthy)
Research journalists covering your industry or local market
Craft simple, direct pitch explaining the interesting angle
Be available for follow-up questions and provide supporting data
Frame story as learning experiment rather than just business promotion
When It Fails
Story isn't actually interesting to outside audience, approach feels too promotional, or legal issues arise from publicity
Real Example
“Launched unauthorized Bucky's reselling site, then pitched story to Texas reporters as 'viral marketing stunt to get their attention.' Generated multiple feature stories leading to $200K first month revenue.”