If you’re a solopreneur who’s not into spending money on ads or constantly showing up on video to grow your email list, I’ve got something that might just change the game for you: bundles. And I’m not talking about baby onesies or cozy blankets—I’m talking about strategic collaborations that grow your audience, build connection, and nurture trust, all while staying true to who you are.
This idea isn’t mine originally (credit where credit’s due!). I first learned about this approach from the amazing Kate Doster, who’s a marketing mentor with a big heart and a brilliant brain. She’s been both a contributor to and host of countless bundles—and her insights might just be the nudge you need to try one yourself.
What is a Bundle, Anyway?
At its core, a bundle is a collaborative offer—usually free or low-cost—where a group of online business owners come together to share valuable resources (like templates, courses, checklists, or trainings) around a shared topic or audience.
The magic? It’s a win-win-win:
- The contributors grow their email lists with aligned, engaged humans.
- The host gets to grow their own list while building deeper connections in their niche.
- The audience gets their hands on an amazing collection of content they’re actually excited to receive.
Kate calls bundles one of the most underrated growth strategies in 2025—and I have to agree. It’s a beautiful example of how collaboration really does beat competition.
Why Hosting a Bundle Can Be So Powerful
Hosting a bundle is more than throwing together a bunch of freebies. It’s about curating an experience that feels cohesive and aligned for your people.
Kate recommends starting with your audience in mind. What are they craving more of? What gaps exist in their journey? Then, think about who you can bring together to fill those gaps—without overlapping or overwhelming.
As the host, it’s your job to keep the quality high. That means reviewing every submission to make sure it aligns with your values, audience, and standards. A little quality control goes a long way in protecting the integrity of your bundle—and making sure your people trust what you’re offering them.
The Behind-the-Scenes Bits (That Make a Big Difference)
Let’s be real—hosting a bundle does come with some logistics. But it doesn’t have to be chaotic.
Kate suggests using tools like Airtable to keep track of submissions and details. Having a system for collecting contributor content and assets saves so much back-and-forth (and sanity). And make sure to think through your tech—like where the bundle will be hosted and how people will access the offers.
Communication is also key. Keeping contributors in the loop with deadlines, promotional timelines, and assets makes it easier for them to show up and support the bundle. And when they feel supported, they’re more likely to go all-in on promoting it.
Two Common Mistakes Kate Sees All the Time
Even with the best of intentions, bundles can go sideways if you’re not careful. According to Kate, here are the top two things to watch for:
- Too much of the same thing.
If every contributor offers a Canva template or social media calendar, your bundle starts to feel repetitive. Curate with intention and aim for variety that serves your people in different ways.
- No plan for after the bundle ends.
Growing your list is just step one. You’ve got to think about what happens next. What’s your plan for nurturing those new subscribers? How will you welcome them, build trust, and guide them deeper into your world?
A simple, genuine email sequence can go a long way here. Just like in real life, relationships take time and attention.
Final Thoughts: Why Bundles Are Still So Worth It in 2025
In a world where attention is scarce and trust is everything, bundles give you a chance to show up in a way that’s helpful, aligned, and collaborative.
Whether you’re hosting or contributing, the goal is the same: create a meaningful experience for your people, without burning yourself out in the process.
And if you’re someone who prefers to work behind the scenes, who values real connection over vanity metrics, and who’s looking for a sustainable way to grow—bundles might be your new favorite strategy.
Big thanks to Kate Doster for championing this approach and showing us that yes, you can grow your list and your business without selling your soul (or dancing on Reels).
Where to find Kate Doster
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katedostercommunications/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kate_doster
- Website: https://www.katedoster.com/
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