6 Bloggers that are "Hitting It Out of the Park"!

It wasn’t that many years ago that I scoffed at blogging - no way was I ever going to write a blog or even read a blog. At one point, the local online “newspaper” sent out a survey asking what we thought about its product. I rated everything high, but complained because they had started giving more attention to bloggers - why would I ever want to read something that wasn’t written by a professional writer?

Needless to say, my opinion on blogging (and bloggers) has changed significantly over time. Not only do I value the information, education, entertainment value, and unique voices offered by blogs, but I have come to realize that they are an amazing business tool as well.

When I first started blogging, I only followed one or two of the biggest names in blogging. But, slowly overtime, by reading other’s blog posts like this one, and by following great content trails, I realized that there are many amazing writers out there to learn from.

However, of all of the blogs that I now subscribe to, these 6 are the only ones that I invite to interrupt me in my “inbox. Not all are marketers (by profession), however all are great reads and offer examples of blogging done right - at least to me.

1. Marcus Sheridan (aka The Sales Lion): Coming across “The Sales Lion” was really one of those “break through moments” for me as a blogger and business owner. At the time I was 6 months into my new business and was working through some of the “start up” issues that seem to come along with the beginning of a new venture. I didn’t realize it at the time but I needed a little direction and encouragement. I visited Marcus’ blog - loved his stuff - very high energy, passionate, and filled with great ideas and feedback - and left a comment. A few days later I got a call from Marcus. He spent the next 45 minutes to an hour (sorry Marcus) answering questions, making suggestions, and providing the much needed boost.
2. Gini Dietrich (Spin Sucks): I found Gini’s blog through a recommendation that Marcus made on a blog similar to this one. Spin Sucks is a high energy PR and Marketing community. Gini’s blogs are high energy, fast paced, and often humorous - however they will tolerate the occasional “rant” on Spin Sucks as well. The community is very vibrant and the site as a whole has a playful feel to it.
3. John Falchetto (Expat Life Coach): Another of Marcus’ recommendations - I only steal from the best! John’s ability to write in a calming, quite voice while at the same time building up your energy, focus, and motivation is amazing. It’s a balance that I tried (mostly unsuccessfully) for many years to produce in the basketball teams that I coached. He has a way of clearing away all of the noise so that you can focus on what is important. If you hope to achieve more in your life, you should definitely check him out!
4. Ryan Hanley (Insurance Agent): I’ve just started following Ryan recently. He is an insurance agent that writes about Success Marketing and Social Media. His posts are funny (who knew right?) and full of personality - a little wisdom thrown in as well. A couple of weeks ago I read Why I’m a Bad Salesman and Think You Should be Too and was sold. I’ve since checked out some of his other content and look forward to more.
5. Jeff Rose (Good Financial Cents): Great blog title by the way - the fact that he was able to secure that domain name has to be an indication that he has been around for awhile (blogging since 2008). I work with a several financial planners and so starting following Jeff on their behalf. As I sifted through his content in my reader (at first) I was impressed with the quality and content of his blogs and videos. Then one of the planners I worked with forwarded me a video that Jeff made explaining “How to Make Videos for YouTube”.  That’s when I became a true fan.
6. Jeff Goins (Writer): Jeff is another blogger that I just started following recently. He is a writer by profession, passion, and calling. Like John, he has a very calm and easy going voice. He writes about writing, pursing your dreams, and accomplishing your goals - good stuff!

Hopefully you will find these blogs as enjoyable and helpful as I have! I try to learn from the best too. What blogs do you follow - please add your recommendations! Comments and questions welcome and appreciated.