Why I Promote These 3 Programs (And Not 50 Others). It took me a long time to come to an understanding so clear that I am sorry it took all this time
Post by Peter Hanley coachhanley.com
After 10 years in affiliate marketing, I get pitched new “opportunities” almost daily. Software launches, course releases, crypto schemes, NFT projects, AI tools, productivity apps – you name it, someone’s offering me a commission to promote it.
My response is almost always the same: “Thanks, but no thanks.”
Here’s why I only promote three programs, and why this approach has made me more money than chasing every shiny object that crosses my inbox.
The Problem with “Spray and Pray” Affiliate Marketing
Early in my career, I fell into the trap most affiliates do – promoting anything that offered decent commissions. My email list got confused, my audience lost trust, and ironically, I made less money despite promoting more products.
The turning point came when I realized something crucial: Your reputation is your most valuable asset. Every product you promote either builds or erodes that reputation.
So I made a decision: I’d only promote products I personally use and genuinely believe in. Products that solve real problems for real people. Products I’d recommend to my own family.
That decision narrowed my focus to exactly three programs.
Program #1: Wealthy Affiliate – My Foundation
Why it’s my base product:
Wealthy Affiliate isn’t just something I promote – it’s literally the foundation my entire business runs on. Every website I own is hosted there. Every domain I purchase goes through their system. When I’m creating content, building funnels, or testing new strategies, WA provides the infrastructure.
The business logic:
- I use it daily, so my recommendations come from genuine experience
- Generous commission structure that rewards long-term thinking
- It contains all the essential marketing tools in one place
- 10+ year track record means I can confidently promote it
The real reason I love promoting WA: When someone succeeds with Wealthy Affiliate, they often become my affiliate customers for other programs. It’s not just a one-time commission – it’s building relationships with people who trust my recommendations.
When I show someone how to build their first profitable website using WA’s tools, and they see results, they come back asking: “What else do you recommend?” That’s when the real business relationship begins.
Program #2: GotBackup – The Smart Recurring Play
Why I chose the “cheap entry” approach:
GotBackup might seem like an odd choice compared to high-ticket programs, but there’s genius in the simplicity. At under $10/month, there’s virtually no barrier to entry, but it pays recurring commissions forever.
The universal need factor: Everyone needs backup. Period. Whether you’re a complete beginner or running a million-dollar business, losing your data is catastrophic. This isn’t a “nice to have” – it’s essential digital insurance.
The business psychology:
- Low price = easy first “yes” from new subscribers
- Recurring commissions = growing passive income
- Universal need = massive market size
- Simple concept = easy to explain and promote
The relationship builder: When someone trusts you with a small purchase and gets great results, they’re primed for bigger recommendations later. GotBackup often becomes the gateway that leads to my other affiliate programs.
Program #3: Michael Cheney’s Millionaires Apprentice – The Big Ticket
Why only one high-ticket program:
After testing dozens of high-priced courses and coaching programs, Michael Cheney’s approach stood out for one reason: results. Not just income screenshots (anyone can fake those), but real people in the community consistently hitting significant milestones.
The strategic fit:
- Complements my other recommendations perfectly
- For people already succeeding with WA who want to scale up
- Genuine mentorship, not just information delivery
- Community aspect provides ongoing value beyond the initial purchase
The commission reality: Yes, big-ticket items mean big commissions. But more importantly, the people who invest at this level become serious business partners, not just customers.
The Power of Three: Why This Works
Focus Creates Expertise: Instead of knowing a little about 50 products, I know everything about these three. I can answer detailed questions, provide specific guidance, and offer genuine insights based on extensive experience.
Trust Through Restraint: When people see you’re not promoting every opportunity that comes along, they trust your recommendations more. Scarcity of recommendations increases their perceived value.
Logical Progression: These three programs create a natural customer journey:
- Start with backup (everyone needs it, low cost)
- Build with WA (comprehensive marketing foundation)
- Scale with Michael Cheney (high-ticket mastery)
Simplified Decision Making: For my audience and for me. I don’t waste time evaluating new opportunities. I don’t confuse my subscribers with contradictory recommendations. Everything is clear and intentional.
What I Turn Down (And Why)
Every week I decline opportunities that could pay thousands in commissions:
- Software tools that duplicate WA features
- Courses that contradict my proven strategies
- High-ticket programs with questionable track records
- Anything I haven’t personally tested for at least 6 months
The opportunity cost question: Sure, I might miss out on some short-term income. But by maintaining focus and integrity, I’ve built something more valuable – a reputation for only recommending what actually works.
The Results Speak for Themselves
Since narrowing my focus to these three programs:
- Higher conversion rates across all promotions
- Stronger relationships with my audience
- More repeat customers and referrals
- Better sleep (seriously – no more worrying about promoting junk)
- Increased lifetime customer value
The Bottom Line
In a world where most marketers promote anything for a commission, being selective is a competitive advantage.
I promote Wealthy Affiliate because it’s my business foundation and provides everything needed to succeed online.
I promote GotBackup because everyone needs it, it’s affordable, and the recurring commissions build real wealth over time.
I promote Michael Cheney’s program because it’s the logical next step for people ready to scale beyond basics.
Three products. Three different price points. Three different stages of the customer journey. All products I use personally and can recommend with complete integrity.
That’s not just good business – it’s the only way I’ll do business.
Ready to Build Your Business on Solid Ground?
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale up, I’ve got a clear recommendation based on where you are right now:
- New to online business? Start with GotBackup – protect what you’re building from day one
- Ready to build seriously? Wealthy Affiliate provides everything you need under one roof
- Already succeeding and want to scale? Michael Cheney’s system is the next logical step
The choice is yours. The recommendations are tested. The results are real.
Ok, nothing works without a bit of self promotion. It is necessary in all blogs as we build trust together
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10 years in affiliate marketing. Hundreds of opportunities considered. Only three worth promoting. This is why.
