From Byline to Bottom Line

A Copywriting Starter Kit for Journalists

About eight years ago I was running a niche magazine when “market forces” shifted and I found myself without a job. I’d had a successful journalism career, and had even been a longtime freelance contributor to several publications, but the times they were a-changing. It got harder and harder to find high-quality editorial roles.

Luckily, I had built up a roster of corporate and agency clients who hired me for one-off copywriting projects over the years. I was able to shift from journalism to copywriting and continue paying my bills. Turns out, “brand journalism” was much more lucrative than writing for traditional publications.

If you find yourself struggling in the current media landscape, copywriting could be your answer.

From Journalism to Copywriting

I created From Byline to Bottom Line to help you cut through the over-inflated promises and dead end advice that gets pushed on social media. This guide is no-nonsense, no fluff, and based on what I actually did to build my client list.

And yes, I mention how AI has changed things since 2025 and how you can adapt.

You get:

• A 31-page guide (PDF)
• Bonus Templates ZIP file

Want to start copywriting without spending months figuring it out? I designed this fast-track guide for journalists to teach you how to re-position yourself as a copywriter and start looking for clients right away.

Inside the guide, you’ll find:

• A clear breakdown of how copywriting works
• Positioning advice designed specifically for journalists
• Spec sample ideas to build a copywriting portfolio fast
• Email outreach templates you can can adapt and send immediately
• A simple overview of how to price your work to avoid undercharging

This is a quick-start guide with bonus templates.

No course to binge.
No subscription commitment.
From Byline to Bottom Line was created to help you get up and running quickly.

Perfect for:

• Journalists exploring copywriting for the first time
• Writers transitioning out of shrinking media markets
• Anyone who wants a faster, clearer path to paid client work

Instant download available on Gumroad.

Start using it today. You get two files: A PDF guide and a ZIP file with worksheets and templates.

FAQs: From Byline to Bottom Line

Do I need copywriting experience to use this guide?

No. This guide assumes you already have journalism skills, so you know how to research, write, and think critically. It helps you translate those skills into client-ready copywriting work. If you’re new to client services but experienced as a journalist, this guide is designed for you.

Is this relevant if I’m still working in journalism?

Yes! Many readers use this guide while exploring copywriting alongside journalism. The focus is on understanding how copywriting works and how to position your existing skills and experience in a way clients value. It’s not about quitting your job or making sudden changes.

Does this include templates or just advice?

It includes both. Along with the main guide (PDF format), you’ll receive a zip file of printable, reusable templates (proposal, pricing, outreach, worksheet, and checklist) designed to help you think through your own process and take action.

Will this help me get clients?

This guide doesn’t promise instant clients. It provides structure and confidence so you understand how copywriting works and you can approach it in a way that feels natural and authentic for YOU. The exercises and templates make it possible to pursue client work thoughtfully and professionally on your own terms.

Is this about using AI or replacing writing with AI tools?

Nope. I tell you how AI has shown up in my own client relationships, but I’m not doom-and-gloom about it. I don’t believe AI replaces our editorial judgment. This guide focuses on what you bring to the table and building the qualities that matter most in client work. AI is discussed in context, not as a shortcut or replacement.

How long will this take to work through?

You can read the guide in one sitting. I designed it to be concise and actionable. Most exercises are short and designed to be revisited over time as your experience grows. Most readers complete the 7-day action plan at their own pace, and it may take a week or two to complete while continuing your regular work.

Is From Byline to Bottom Line a course or ongoing program?

No. This is a one-time purchase that includes the guide and all bonus materials. There are no upsells, subscriptions, or gated steps. You’ll pay and download it at Gumroad.