The Publishing Playbook: How to Win Before You Launch | #Marketing - Ep. 07

Monday, September 22, 2025

Listen To Today's Episode:

Episode Recap:

Most people build a funnel first and then try to find traffic. But that’s completely backward! In this episode, I share why your number one focus should be gathering an audience long before your funnel launches. I’ll break down the exact strategies I’ve used to dominate in marketing. Whether it's building ClickFunnels into the category leader or creating products that people are already lined up to buy. If you’re struggling to get momentum, this episode is for you.

Key Highlights:

Dig your well before you're thirsty - If you wait until your funnel is live to build an audience, you’ve already lost.

The two paths to traffic - Working your way in (free strategies) vs. buying your way in (paid ads). You need both, but I’ll tell you where to start.

The power of relationships - Most successful marketers don’t rely on ads alone. I’ll show you how connecting with the right influencers can send a flood of traffic your way.

Why publishing content is non-negotiable - You can’t just build an offer and hope people show up. I’ll explain why consistent content is the secret to long-term success.

How I’ve used these strategies to dominate competitors - From beating Leadpages to taking on GHL, I’ll share the mindset and tactics that keep ClickFunnels ahead.

If you’re serious about selling online, you can’t afford to wait until launch day to find your audience. The second you decide to start a business, you need to start gathering the many. In this episode, I’ll break down exactly how to do that, so when your funnel is ready, you’ve already got a crowd waiting to buy!

Additional Resources for Entrepreneurs

Ready to transform your business and your relationships? Check out these essential resources:

Selling Online Challenge: Join Russell's 3-day virtual event where you'll learn the exact framework for "one-to-many" selling that can help you sell anything to anyone online - even if you're an introvert with zero followers!

ClickFunnels: The #1 funnel builder on the planet that helps you convert your online visitors into paying customers - with the easiest to use, fastest, and most optimized platform for turning clicks into cash!

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Don't miss future episodes of The Russell Brunson Show where Russell shares his cutting-edge strategies for building and scaling businesses. Each episode delivers actionable insights from his experience building multiple 8-figure companies and coaching thousands of entrepreneurs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are reaction videos in marketing?

Short videos where you watch a niche-relevant clip and respond with your expert take. They work because the hook is built in and your value rides existing interest.

Do reaction videos help with lead generation?

Yes. Use comment keywords to trigger DMs, then send long-form content or opt-ins. This turns views into contacts you can nurture through email and community.

How often should I post reaction content?

Daily if possible. At minimum, three times per week. Batch record so you stay consistent while you travel or launch.

What makes a good reaction clip to choose?

Pick clips that touch problems your offer solves. If your product helps with taxes, structure, ads, offers, or content systems, pick clips in that lane so the next step is obvious.

How do I avoid platform penalties for external links?

Keep users on platform. Ask them to comment a keyword. Deliver links in DMs. You keep reach while still moving people into your funnel.

Can this work outside Instagram?

Yes. The format ports to TikTok, Facebook Reels, YouTube Shorts. Use Shorts to feed your long-form YouTube, then your email list and community.

How do I monetize without feeling salesy?

Teach first. Offer a deeper resource second. Inside your free community, show the value ladder. When people ask for help, invite them up.

What if I am not “a natural” on camera?

Practice first-take honesty. Speak to your younger self. Correct, clarify, and add context like you would to a client. The goal is service, not performance.

Final Thoughts

If you want to succeed in 2025, focus on what matters: build break-even funnels, track your key metrics, create more ad content, stay curious, and most importantly—don’t quit. Success comes to those who keep going, stay focused, and never stop learning. Let’s make this your best year yet.