You Need to Offer Something—Not Just Ask for an Email

People are careful with their inbox these days.
If you want someone to join your list, you need to offer real value first.

That’s where freebies and challenges come in.

Both can attract subscribers.
Both can build trust.
But one might fit your style and audience better than the other.

What’s the Difference?

A freebie is usually a quick, downloadable resource.

Examples:

• PDF guide
• Checklist
• Journal prompts
• Mini video series
• Template or tracker

A challenge is a short, time-based experience.

Examples:

• 3-day reset
• 5-day wellness kickstart
• 7-day routine builder
• Daily videos or prompts by email

Each one has pros and cons. The key is choosing what fits your goals.

When a Freebie Works Best

Use a freebie if:

• You’re new to email marketing and want something easy to set up
• You want an evergreen offer that runs on autopilot
• You have one clear quick win to deliver
• You prefer low-maintenance lead generation

Freebies work well for:

• “Download this” content
• Passive traffic (SEO, social, blog)
• Content repurposing
• Ongoing promotion

If you need freebie inspiration, read Top Lead Magnet Ideas for Health & Wellness Coaches

When a Challenge Works Best

Use a challenge if:

• You want to create urgency and energy
• You enjoy live interaction or daily content
• You’re leading into a specific program or offer
• You’re growing a community (e.g., a group program)

Challenges work well for:

• Launches
• Webinars
• Time-sensitive enrollment periods
• Building group engagement before selling

They’re more effort—but often create stronger connection.

How to Choose the Right One

Ask yourself:

• Do I want this running all year—or just for a few weeks?
• Do I have time to show up live—or do I prefer automation?
• Am I growing my audience—or selling something soon?

There’s no wrong choice. But making the right one for your current stage helps you see results faster.

Best Practices for Both

No matter what you choose, follow these basics:

• Solve one clear problem
• Give a real result—even if small
• Include a clear next step (like booking a call or joining a program)
• Use video to connect faster

Need help recording your opt-in video? Start with Get Camera Ready

You Can Always Do Both

Start with a freebie.
Build momentum.
Then create a live challenge when you’re ready for more engagement or want to promote a paid offer.

You can even offer both on your site—just make sure each one serves a different purpose.

Final Thought

There’s no perfect lead magnet.
There’s only the one you actually create and share.

Whether it’s a freebie or a challenge, your audience wants help.
Give them something simple, useful, and aligned with your coaching.
That’s how you grow your list—and your business.