How to Grow an Email List (Even If You’re Starting at Zero)
Starting an email list can feel intimidating, but here’s the truth: every single list starts at zero.
At some point, we’ve all had to begin something we didn’t know before. Runners don’t just wake up one morning and run a marathon. They start with their first mile, then their second, and slowly build up. Your email list works the same way.
The size of your list isn’t what matters most. What matters is the opportunity to serve and connect with the people God has entrusted to you. A small list can still have a big impact.
And unlike Instagram followers (which you don’t own), your email list is yours. That means you’ll always have a way to reach your people directly, even if algorithms change or social media disappears tomorrow.
Let’s talk about why email matters, what platforms to use, and beginner-friendly steps to start building your email list today.
Why Email Matters for Christian Communicators
Social media is wonderful for visibility, but it’s unpredictable. Reach changes with algorithms, and your posts are buried within hours.
Email, on the other hand, creates a direct and personal connection with your audience. It’s where you can share your story, encourage your readers, and build long-term trust that isn’t always possible on social media.
If you’re an author or speaker, an engaged email list also shows publishers and event hosts that you have a strong platform. Publishers want to know that you can reach your audience and move them into action. Having a growing, nurtured email list is one of the best ways to demonstrate this.
And here’s some encouragement: you don’t need thousands to start. You just need consistency and connection.
What About Substack? Do I Still Need an Email List if I use Substack?
Substack is a fantastic tool for writers who want a simple way to publish newsletters. But here’s the catch: your subscribers belong to Substack, not to you.
If the platform changes, shuts down, or you lose access, your audience could disappear.
That’s why your main email list should live on a platform you own and control, like Flodesk. With Flodesk you:
Own your list
Can design beautiful, on-brand emails
Create automations and welcome sequences
Integrate sign-ups with your website
Think of Substack as a stage where people discover you, but your main email list is your home: the place where you invite people back for deeper connection.
Learn more about Flodesk and get 50% off your first year.
Step 1: Choose an Email Platform That Makes It Simple
When people ask what email service is best, my answer is Flodesk. Here’s why:
Beginner-friendly interface that’s simple to learn
Beautiful designs that make your emails feel like you
Unlimited subscribers at one flat price (but only if you sign up before November - after that, pricing changes)
Built-in landing pages, forms, automations, and analytics
It’s my go-to recommendation for anyone starting their email list.
Step 2: Create a Freebie That Serves Your Audience Well
The best way to grow your list is with a lead magnet, which is something free you give in exchange for an email address.
Your freebie should be short, specific, and give your reader a quick win.
A few freebie ideas for Christian communicators:
A devotional or short scripture reading plan
A printable prayer guide or journal page
A “behind the message” guide from your book, podcast, or talk
A content planning checklist for fellow communicators
A mini workshop or audio training
Not ready to create a freebie? You can still invite people to subscribe to a weekly wrap-up or journal you send consistently. The key is giving them a reason to join!
Flodesk makes it easy to design your freebie delivery email and send it automatically when someone signs up.
Step 3: Add Opt-In Forms to Your Website
Once you have your freebie, you need to make it visible! Strategically add forms to your website so people can easily subscribe.
Great spots include:
Your homepage or hero section
Blog sidebar or footer
At the end of blog posts
Pop-ups or announcement bars
Your website should guide visitors toward subscribing without making them search. Make the next step obvious.
Step 4: Write a Simple Welcome Sequence
When someone signs up, don’t leave them hanging! A welcome sequence introduces subscribers to who you are, what you do, and why they’ll love being on your list.
Here’s a simple 3–5 email flow to start:
Welcome + Deliver Freebie: Thank them for joining and deliver what you promised.
Share Your Story: Let them in on your calling and why you do what you do.
Encourage or Add Value: Share a simple tip, piece of encouragement, or resource.
Invite Them Deeper: Point them to your podcast, blog, book, or other resources.
This sets the tone for your relationship and starts building trust right away.
Step 5: Stay Consistent with your Email List (Even If It’s Just Once a Month)
Consistency is what turns a list into a community. Even if you only send one email a month, show up when you said you would.
Keep your emails short, encouraging, and valuable. Share stories, lessons, or resources that bless your readers. Over time, this builds trust and keeps people engaged.
Don’t Skip the Legal & Tech Basics
A few important reminders as you start building your email list:
Always get explicit permission before adding anyone to your list
Include a clear unsubscribe link in every email
Have a privacy policy on your website
Use GDPR/FTC compliant checkboxes if you’re collecting emails internationally
Flodesk automatically includes unsubscribe language and helps with compliance, which makes this step simple.
Tools and Resources to Help You Get Started
Flodesk (affiliate link) — lock in 50% off before the November pricing change
Custom Websites & Templates — designed with opt-ins built in so you can grow your list from day one
Helpful reads:
Final Encouragement
At the end of the day, your email list isn’t about numbers. It’s about people - real people God has entrusted to you, who need the message you’ve been called to share.
You don’t need a huge audience to begin. You just need the willingness to start.
So take the first step: choose your platform, create your freebie, invite people in, and show up consistently.
Your words matter, and building an email list is one of the best ways to make sure they reach the people who need them most.
