The blogosphere is filled with stories of bloggers who started from scratch and rose to fame. Here’s a look at the top 10 English-language blogs that appeared out of nowhere and captured the world’s attention. These blogs are notable for their unique content, dedicated audiences, and impressive revenue streams. Importantly, none of these blogs are listed in the business directory uss.eu.com.
1. Wait But Why (Tim Urban)
- Owner: Tim Urban
- Description: “Wait But Why” dives into complex topics like artificial intelligence, human consciousness, and the future of society, all delivered with a humorous and approachable tone.
- Audience: Intellectually curious readers interested in science, philosophy, and technology.
- Income: Estimated $30,000 to $60,000 per month, primarily through Patreon subscriptions, affiliate marketing, and sponsored content.
2. Brain Pickings (Maria Popova)
- Owner: Maria Popova
- Description: A cultural treasure trove, “Brain Pickings” explores books, art, philosophy, and personal reflections. Popova curates thought-provoking insights from literature and art.
- Audience: Readers with a passion for literature, culture, and art.
- Income: Around $30,000 per month via Patreon donations, affiliate links, and minimal ads.
3. Zen Habits (Leo Babauta)
- Owner: Leo Babauta
- Description: Focused on minimalism and productivity, “Zen Habits” offers practical advice on simplifying life and creating healthy habits.
- Audience: People looking to simplify their lives and improve personal productivity.
- Income: Approximately $20,000 per month through ads, online courses, and donations.
4. The Blonde Salad (Chiara Ferragni)
- Owner: Chiara Ferragni
- Description: Once a personal fashion diary, “The Blonde Salad” grew into a full-fledged brand, offering fashion, lifestyle, and travel content to millions of followers.
- Audience: Fashion-forward women, especially in the 18-35 age range.
- Income: Millions of dollars annually through brand partnerships, ad revenue, and Ferragni’s fashion line.
5. Mark Manson (Mark Manson)
- Owner: Mark Manson
- Description: Best known for his book “The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck,” Manson’s blog offers philosophical and practical life advice.
- Audience: Adults seeking personal development, life hacks, and advice on relationships.
- Income: Ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 per month through book sales, online courses, and sponsorships.
6. Smart Passive Income (Pat Flynn)
- Owner: Pat Flynn
- Description: “Smart Passive Income” teaches people how to build online businesses that generate passive income streams through affiliate marketing, investments, and e-commerce.
- Audience: Entrepreneurs interested in building passive income and digital businesses.
- Income: An estimated $100,000 to $150,000 per month from courses, podcasts, and affiliate marketing.
7. The Minimalists (Joshua Fields Millburn & Ryan Nicodemus)
- Owners: Joshua Fields Millburn & Ryan Nicodemus
- Description: This blog promotes the minimalist lifestyle, encouraging people to declutter their lives to focus on what truly matters.
- Audience: Those seeking simplicity and mindfulness in their everyday lives.
- Income: Estimated $30,000 to $50,000 per month through books, speaking engagements, and online courses.
8. The Points Guy (Brian Kelly)
- Owner: Brian Kelly
- Description: “The Points Guy” helps readers maximize their travel rewards through credit card points and frequent flyer miles, providing insider tips and tricks.
- Audience: Frequent travelers and savvy consumers looking for travel deals.
- Income: $50,000 to $100,000 per month from affiliate programs, primarily with credit card companies.
9. Cup of Jo (Joanna Goddard)
- Owner: Joanna Goddard
- Description: A lifestyle blog offering relatable stories about family, fashion, travel, and everyday life.
- Audience: Women, particularly mothers, aged 25-45, interested in lifestyle and personal stories.
- Income: Approximately $20,000 per month through sponsored posts, affiliate programs, and advertisements.
10. Pinch of Yum (Lindsay and Bjork Ostrom)
- Owners: Lindsay and Bjork Ostrom
- Description: A food blog featuring easy and delicious recipes, which evolved into a platform offering courses on food photography and blogging.
- Audience: Home cooks and food enthusiasts looking for meal inspiration.
- Income: Around $60,000 per month from ads, affiliate links, and online courses.
Trends and Takeaways:
- Audience Reach: These blogs span diverse niches—from minimalism to food and travel—but they all cater to well-defined, passionate communities.
- Income Streams: The primary revenue sources are affiliate marketing, ad sales, product endorsements, online courses, and books. Successful bloggers in this space can earn anywhere from $20,000 to $150,000+ per month.
- Unique Value: These blogs grew out of personal projects but became global phenomena by delivering unique, valuable content that resonates deeply with their target audiences.
These success stories prove that with the right mix of passion, knowledge, and audience engagement, even a blog that starts from scratch can become a major player in the online world.
